Tickets for the Canadian Mixed Curling Championships went on sale on February 6. The organizing committee presented the first ticket for the event to the family of the late Bill Batty. Accepting the ticket, from left, were Darlene Goruick (daughter), Ruth Batty, Cheri Blackwell (chair of committee) and Glenn Batty (son). Bill was an integral part of the Assiniboia Curling Club serving as president and on the board for many years. Bill’s legacy is also attached to the Prince of Wales Cultural and Recreational Centre, which he was instrumental in the fundraising, designing and building efforts. The highlight was getting to meet Prince Charles and showing him that wonderful facility. If he was alive, Bill would be front row centre keeping track of every shot on every sheet.
Sherri Solomko
Freelance Reporter
The organizing committee for the upcoming Curling Canada Mixed Curling Championships were happy with the house full who came to celebrate the event kick off.
Committee co-chair,
Cheri Blackwell, said, “It was a well attended kickoff and we were happy to have sold 40 event passes.
The tables are sold but, but there was a small number of reserved seating spots still available for $50, but this does not include your ticket to get in.”
In a gesture of thanks and appreciation, Ruth Batty, along with daughter Darlene Goruick and son Glenn Batty, were on hand to accept the first ticket in honor of Bill Batty.
“Bill was a cornerstone of the Assiniboia Curling club, serving as president
and on the board for many years. His legacy extends beyond curling to the Prince of Wales Cultural and Recreational Centre, a project he played a key role in fundraising, designing and building. A proud moment in his journey was meeting Prince
Sherri Solomko
Freelance Reporter
Sr. Rebels stay cool as they head into playoffs
League standings.
Nothing epitomizes small-town hockey enthusiasm more than playoffs. The teams know each other well from hotly contested games throughout regular season in the Notekeu Hockey League. When playoffs approach, intensity intensifies, game tempos increase and the excitement and exhilaration of supporting your home town team fires up as fans fill the stands.
Assiniboia Senior Rebels playoff stories continue and fans are ravenous to support their home town team in their playoff quests.
The date has been set.
The Senior Rebels finished off a strong regular season, retaining top spot in Notekeu Hockey
After the conclusion of regular season, the teams have now been assigned to their playoff brackets with the Rebels started their best of five series against Hodgeville Huskies, with a game held at the Southland Co-op Centre on Feb. 7. Mossbank and Lafleche will meet for the other Wood River Division semi final while Radville, Avonlea, Coronach and Yellow Grass will duke it out for semi final wins in the Soo Division to see who advances to the league championship series.
The Senior Rebels will also begin their HockeySask provincial quest on Saturday, Feb. 15 against Oxbow, making for a busy month for Assiniboia’s senior hockey team.
National mixed curling event committee welcomes fans to their house
Charles and showcasing this remarkable facility.”
The committee acknowledges that while Bill is no long with us, they know he would be front and centre, closely following every shot on every sheet.
Blackwell said curling enthusiasts can still purchase tickets online at sasktix.ca, or if seeking more information about event tickets, or purchasing a reserved seat, they can email assiniboiamixedcurling@gmail.com.
Bringing a national competition to a smalltown community is a remarkable achievement but previous hosting success stories leave fans and the curling community no doubt that this will be another top-notch event held in Assiniboia.
The countdown is on so stay tuned to the paper and curling club social media posts for the latest news and updates on this bigticket event, upcoming in ten months time.
Rockglen musician releases new album
Submitted by
Greg Dandeneau Marie Lerminiaux is no stranger to tough times nor the silence of being alone. She walked 700+ kilometers alone, in the spring of 2024, on the Camino France route to Santiago, Spain with a football sized satchel of medication in her backpack for her kidney transplant. Her life experiences are her muse, which range from heartbreak, tragic loss and abuse, to soulsearching, spirit-chasing and the simple pleasures of the land on long country walks, to name a few.
Encouraged by friends of her talents, Marie wanted to get public performance experience at the open mics and traveled the dark south Saskatchewan highways in all kinds of weather to do just that.
Greg Dandeneau approached Marie with an idea to start their own open mic right here in Rockglen. In the year and a half it’s been running, it has grown immensely. Through all her various public performances, the Rockglen Open Mic and her intense dedication to her craft, Marie has grown immensely as well - from shy and with little confidence to now, releasing her first CD.
The CD is called ‘A House Needs Love’ and is
Bonnie Elder Photography a country/rock/Americana flavoured mix of songs about the joys and pains of growing up, addiction, the life of farming and ranching, and her nostalgia of road tripping. It was produced by Ed Rigetti, (Rigetti Recording Works, Glentworth Saskatchewan) For Marie, this is just the beginning. Her 700+ kilometre trek has opened her up to a whole new ‘depth of being’ she is sure to share in song.
Local residents can listen to ‘A House Needs Love’ on Spotify, YouTube and iMusic/iTune.
Marie Lerminiaux and Ed Rigetti continue to work together collaborating in songwriting and composing with plans on releasing another album as a duo in the spring.
The Assiniboia Senior Rebels played Hodgeville Huskies on February 7, winning 5-1 and showing exciting sportsmanship as the teams press on to bring home the coveted trophy. They claimed a 5-3 win over Hodgeville on February 9. The team holds first place in the Wood River Division with 31 points. The next game at the Southland Co-op Centre will be on February 12, against Hodgeville Huskies at 8 p.m.
Junior Rebels full steam ahead in playoff push
Sherri Solomko Freelance Reporter
The Richardson Pioneer Jr. Rebels struggled the last part of January and early February losing four games in a row up to Feb. 2, affecting their potential playoff position.
Rebels’ fans were ready to bring the noise for the team’s last regular season home game, Feb. 5 however Mother Nature had other ideas forced postponement of the game. The game was to be against Regina Silver Foxes, a team which the Rebels are needing to stay ahead of to
position themselves a playoff position. As of Feb. 10, press time, there was no date of reschedule listed on the PJHL website.
That meant the trio of games slated for Feb. 7-89, on the road, would have added intensity as the Rebels seek to build points in their playoff push.
Feb. 7, the Junior Rebels only scored two goals in a 7-2 loss in Saskatoon playing the Saskatoon Westleys. Feb. 8 game, facing the Prince Albert Timberjacks was a hotly contested match, however Assiniboia’s Jr. B team lost
in overtime.
A third game in one weekend meant digging deep for the Rebels and all players put in their best effort, winning a decided 6-2 victory over the Timberjacks on Feb. 9.
This leaves only two regular season games remaining that has the Rebels traveling to the Al Ritchie arena in Regina to take on their division’s second place team, the Regina Capitals, for a rescheduled date due weather postponemen set for February 5t.
Would the Jr. Rebels be able to finish their regular
season knowing they had earned a playoff position in the Prairie Junior Hockey League? The team’s focus remained the same, win and you’re in. League standings as of Feb. 9 showed the RPSR 7 points ahead of Regina Silver Foxes, with Fort Knox and Capitals cemented in the top two spots of the Bill Johnston Division. The Storm is currently sitting in third spot in the same division. Playoffs include the top four teams from each division, plus two wild cards and are slated to begin Feb. 21.
RockTalk: leagues winding down
Submitted by the Assiniboia Curling Club
First of all, the Assiniboia Curling Club recently received the Sask Lottery “MAP Grant” program and the Golden South Wind Community Benefit Fund for their continued support in various club projects. Their contributions was very much appreciated.
Secondly, the Assiniboia Curling Club did not get to host CurlSask Mixed Doubles Last Chance Playoff due to lack of entries. All nine teams that entered are headed directly to the Provincial Championship rather than just six that
were to advance from this competition.
Actually, in its place they did host the Prairie South Bantam Playoffs on the Jan. 31 and Feb. 1.
The Davyroyd Spiel is coming up on Saturday, Feb. 15, and from all reports it’s raring to go. It’s always a fun day of fellowship and fun curling.
Curling leagues will wind down towards the middle of the month and club playoffs will commence very shortly.
The annual Ladies Spiel will be held March 14 and 15 and the Men’s Spiel will be held March
21, 22, 23. Both events are now accepting entries. Phone Bill at 306-6409655 or leave a message in the office at 306-642-5115 to get your rink entered.
The Curling Club continues to plan for the Canadian Mixed Championship which they will host Nov. 2 to 8.
Local residents can watch for each of the provincial and territory winners to be determined this season and earn their spot in this event. Seating is now for sale through the office. Until next month, keep “rockin”!! Not much left in this season.
Photo courtesy of
Marie Lerminiaux
The Rockets boys team were in Lumsden for a game on February 7.
Assiniboia RCMP seeking info on traffic collision
A report was received at the Assiniboia RCMP Detachment of a traffic collision that occurred on December 13, 2024 at approximately 8:25 p.m within the Town of Assiniboia. This incident occurred in the parking lot of a fuel station located on the 500 block of First Avenue West.
The Assiniboia RCMP is asking for the public’s assistance in identifying the truck pictured below
and the driver of the truck, as it is believed that they may have information regarding this incident.
The license plate of the truck was not captured on footage; however, the truck has some significant frontend damage as seen below.
If you have information on this truck or its driver, contact the Assiniboia RCMP at 306-642-7110 or at Crime Stoppers at 1-800222-8477 or online at sask-
REGINA- 160 ACRES: ExtensiveLivestock
crimestoppers.com.
The RCMP responded to 25 calls for service during the week of January 27 to February 2. These included:
- 911 Act - 1 - Assault - 2
- Assist to Other Agency / General Public - 3
- Coroner’s Act - 1 - Criminal Harassment/
Harassing Communications - 2
- Family Law Act - 1 - Fraud - 3 - Liquor Act - 1
- Traffic infractions - 3
- Traffic Collisions - 1
- Sexual Assault /Interference - 2
- Suspicious Person - 1
- Uttering Threats - 2
- Wellbeing Check - 2
Notice of Call for Nominations R.M. of Waverley No. 44
PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that nominations of candidates for the offices of:
COUNCILLOR: R.M. of Waverley No 44Division 4
COUNCILLOR: R.M. of Waverley No 44Division 6
will be received by the undersigned on the 19th day of February, 2025 from 8:30 am to 4:00 pm and during regular business hours on February 7th to February 19th, 2025 at the Municipal Office, 110 Main Street, Glentworth, SK.
Nomination forms may be obtained at the Municipal Office
Dated this 3rd day of February, 2025.
Deidre Nelson Returning Officer
Rocket Report: Basketball teams compete in games
By Niamh Hickey
The Assiniboia Composite High School Rockets girls and boys basketball teams headed out of town for tournaments.
The girls team headed to Indian Head for the Heartbreaker Classic, their annual Pink Tournament during February 7 and 8.
The girls fought hard even with three players down from injuries. The girls participated in Indian Head’s Pink Game on
February 7 where they lost 73-8. The girls lost both their games on February 8, against Lumsden in the first game losing 50-31 and against Melville in the second game losing 5021. Hopefully, everyone on the team will be fully healed after this week and a huge shout out to the girls who pushed through the weekend and never gave up.
The boys team headed out to Lumsden on February 7 where they beat the host team 60-42.
The boys went up against Shaunavon on February 8 where they won 6853 and then at the end of the day they played against Yorkton where they lost 63-67. This means the boys tied for first place with Yorkton in the round robin tournament.
The Rockets boys were back on home court for a game on February 10, when they hosted Briercrest.
For Sale By Tender
MARCENKO TENDER
Located in the RM of Stonehenge No 73 SE 35-09-01W3 approx 159 acres
Prospective Purchasers must rely on their own research of the property to deter mine acreage Condition, improvements and assessment. Highest or any tender not necessarily accepted. Please submit a certified cheque for 5% of the bid with tender payable to “Lewans & Ford Law Office In Trust”, in a clearly marked envelope “Marcenko Tender” Tender will close March 7 at 2:00pm. LEWANS & FORD
Barrister & Solicitors Box 759, 228 Centre Street Assiniboia SK SOH OBO 306-642-4520 or fax: 306-642-5777 office@lewansford.ca
Editorial & Opinions
David Willberg SaskToday.ca
Three coal-fired generating units at the Boundary Dam Power Station near Estevan, as well as the two units at the Poplar River Power Station near Coronach, could be getting an extension on their life cycles.
Jeremy Harrison, the minister responsible for SaskPower, was in southern Saskatchewan this week to meet with employees at the two power stations as well as elected officials from the City and RM of Estevan, the Town of Coronach and the RM of Hart Butte.
In an interview with SaskToday, he said the provincial government has given direction to SaskPower to look at reliability and affordability when it comes to the future of power production in the province.
“That really came out of what we heard in the [provincial] election campaign, and the focus that the public has, rightfully, on those two questions, on reliability and affordability, on a broader context,
but they do go together when it comes to power production,” said Harrison, who reported “very, very enthusiastic support” from both areas.
The government had said previously the Shand Power Station near Estevan would run to the end of its life in 2042 and Unit 3 at the Boundary Dam Power Station would also remain operational until its endof-life date, since Unit 3 is connected to the carbon capture and storage facility at Boundary Dam. Now Harrison says the government will take a “very, very serious examination” whether refurbishing and extending the lives of Units 4, 5 and 6 at Boundary Dam and the two units at Poplar River makes sense while the province bridges to a nuclear future.
“What we have committed to is having those answers for our teams at Boundary Dam and Coronach by the summer, so we’re working towards that. We really view this as being a very clear area. This is entirely provincial jurisdiction. I was very, very blunt when the federal
clean electricity regulations were announced that the federal government has no place or no standing in this conversation. We are going to be taking a decision purely on what is best for this province, what is best for SaskPower and our customers.”
There are technical discussions for both plants and the government has to ensure the economics work for both, he said.
Unit 4 at Boundary Dam was placed on standby in December 2021. SaskPower initially planned to retire the unit once the Great Plains Power Station near Moose Jaw came online – a milestone that was achieved in December. But Unit 4 remains connected to the province’s power grid.
“I gave direction prior to Christmas that … [Unit 4] was not supposed to be decommissioned and retired. And that was obviously a part of what we were looking at already about that future that we were able to share with our staff in the last couple of days,” Harrison said.
Unit 5 shifted to standby mode late last year and can
still be brought online in 48-72 hours.
Unit 6 at Boundary Dam and the two units at Poplar River remain online.
If a refurbishment of the units was to occur, Harrison said a retrofit with carbon capture and storage (CCS) would be one option, but there are different elements that are going to be examined that would have an impact on power production and emission profiles.
As for Shand, Harrison said since the government plans to operate it until 2042, it will work through the other units first, and there will be time for decisions with the facility, which opened in the early 1990s. “Shand will run until 2042. Period,” said Harrison.
The CCS facility for Unit 3 at Boundary Dam was online for 85 per cent of the year, Harrison said, citing the year-end num -
SaskPower looking to extend life of five coal-fired generating units
bers for the facility that had yet to be released publicly.
“We have really pioneered, working through, how this technology needs to be operated to work effectively. I think we’re there. It has been a bit of a challenging process, and I think that’s the case with any first-of-a-kind unit. I think we have a mature technology that we understand and we understand how it works.”
Harrison noted the government has an objective of one million barrels per day of oil production in the province, and carbon injection has increased recovery rates in mature oilfields.
“So that will be part of the conversation as well about the broader economic impact that attaching carbon capture technology might have to existing or refurbished extended-life coal-generation facilities,” he said.
The government’s deeper look into the future of the units at Boundary Dam and Poplar River does not impact their plans for small modular reactors (SMRs). Premier Scott Moe announced last May that if SMRs were to go ahead in Saskatchewan, the first would be built in the Estevan area. A decision has yet to be announced on the exact location of that first SMR, which isn’t expected to be finished for nearly a decade, thanks to the timelines required for the regulatory review process and construction.
Harrison reiterated his support for SMRs and the government’s commitment to nuclear power.
“We hope to be able to operate on the timelines we had talked about as far as nuclear, but that would be over and above what we are doing here right now,” said Harrison.
Letter: memories of Fife Lake Hotel
they are, cook them the way you want.” Our friends were sold on the place after that, and always wanted to return.
When we would send them our auction poster, they made sure that it was put up. Many a time we would stop after a sale and they made sure we felt at home.
One summer, we were traveling with friends and planned to stop in at Fife Lake for supper. Our friend said, “You mean there is a place to eat in this small town?” We went into Fife Lake Bar and were met with open arms. I had told our friends about the steak. After a visit, Lars came out with six T-bone steaks and told us, “Here
Gail and Lawson went above and beyond to make TeleMiracle a success. They contributed to TeleMiracle by going above and beyond. For a town with approximately 15-30 people, this was a remarkable achievement year after year.
(A side note, a story on SaskToday.ca stated Fife Lake Hotel marked 30 years of their annual TeleMiracle auction in 2023, raising a record-breaking total of over $27,000.) We always wanted to return. Everyone will miss them.
Doug McConnell McConnell Auctions
The Poplar River Power Station located near Coronach.
Courtesy SaskPower
Federal coal plant plans are concerning for Coronach Mayor
Sherri Solomko Freelance Reporter
Calvin Martin is now serving his second term as Mayor of Coronach after having been first elected in 2020. Martin has lived in Coronach since 2019 when they moved to purchase Coronach Agencies, a long-term business in the community.
Martin’s role in leadership includes serving as
Chief Financial Officer/ Secretary Treasurer of a number of Saskatchewan School Divisions, first in Lanigan School Division in 1985 and retiring with Prince Albert Catholic Schools in 2016.
Coronach’s mayor has also served on the boards of the Insurance Broker’s Association and currently on the General Insurance Council of Saskatchewan.
The town’s website acknowledges that the community’s secret to success is that everyone works together to make Coronach a great place to live.
The town’s mission is to work towards a resilient, thriving Coronach, which is something Mayor Martin has committed to continuing efforts in.
“With the position of our current Federal Gov -
ernment on the use of coal to generate power, our community was looking at a significant reduction in population with employees migrating to other jobs outside the community. As a local business owner, I felt it was necessary to become involved in trying to mitigate these potential losses,” acknowledges the mayor.
“I wish for the community to remain as a vibrant
Rigetti Recording Works helping local artists
Submitted by Greg Dandeneau
Rockglen’s Open Mic crowds have benefitted from so many talented musicians over the last year and a half with some of them having their own recorded CDs.
Recent work includes: Gina Stewart’s ‘Rancher’s Daughter’ (Nebulus Entertainment, Moose Jaw), from hilarious to heartbreaking songs about life on a ranch. Carolyn Macdonald’s ‘Love Never Fails’, (Nebulus Entertainment, Moose Jaw), ‘Talk A Little Louder’, with its title track played on radio sta-
tions in southern Alberta, about her dad in the midst of the BSC crisis. Also Marie Lerminiaux’s ‘A House Needs Love’, produced by Ed Rigetti. “We’re excited to have Ed at our open mic, not just for his amazing guitar skills but for an opportunity for all the musicians who would like to do what Marie did, which is to record their own music,” said Greg Dandeneau.
After Ed having played with numerous bands over the years, including a stint as a full time travelling performer, Ed is now enjoying his retirement
spending more time in his home based recording studio, Rigetti Recording Works, in Glentworth.
In the last few years Ed has recorded and produced three albums in his studio; two for himself, ‘Three Chords and the Gospel’, old hymns with a more current flair,’ I’ve Been Everywhere’ which are cover songs of one of his all time heroes, the late Johnny Cash, and ‘A House Needs Love’, for Marie Lerminiaux.
Marie and Ed have teamed up to do some song writing together with a planned release in the
earlier part of 2025.
Ed is also enjoying working with the ‘Amigos’ band from southern Saskatchewan, attending jam sessions in Ponteix, Meyronne and the local area including the Open Mic in Rockglen.
“I would just like to thank all the people who support these events and make them happen,” said Ed, a huge supporter of the craft of music himself.
and thriving place to live, work and raise a family.
Coronach is a vibrant community in the Big Muddy area of Saskatchewan. There is a rich history including Castle Butte, in the Sam Kelly Outlaw Caves. Guided tours of these places are conducted in the summer months.”
Mayor Martin affirms that in the past six years their town has upgraded their water treatment plant, completed a revitalization of the downtown core of their community with new water and sewer lines, sidewalks and pavement.
Coronach is located just north of the United States border. Their website states that they have a pace best described as beautifully relaxed, but don’t think that
their relaxed atmosphere means nothing is going in in the community. Their website www. townofcoronach.ca carries all of the information beneficial to residents, visitors, potential future residents or investors and anyone else interested in what this community has to offer.
Missing Cattle
7 Black Angus Cows with yellow ear tags. Possibly with 7 calves and 1 Black Angus Bull Branded B over G on the left hip and Rafter over R on the right hip.
The calves have ear tags numbers RIFD Possibly south of Glentworth
Construction continues to complete the finishing steps to the new gas bar and Dairy Queen location.
Mayor Calvin Martin
Holistic Management Conference aims to increase awareness
Muriel
Fehr Freelance Reporter
The Holistic Management Conference took place at the Prince of Wales Cultural Centre on February 7 to 9.
The annual conference drew 300 members of the Holistic community to Assiniboia to attend the affair. Blocks of rooms at the Canalta Inn and the Bar-B Hotel were booked in advance of the weekend. Besides a shuttle bus ferrying folks from hotels to the conference and from the conference to the farm tour, there was a trade show on site. There was also a silent auction with a wide selection of items to bid on over the weekend.
Current president of Holistic Management
Bluesette Campbell explained the concept as “Holistic management starts with increasing the health of the soil which increases the health of the plants which increases
the health of the animals which we eat, so that it increases the health of the people.”
Guest speaker and author of “Dirt to Soil: One Family’s Journey into Regenerative Agriculture”, Gabe Brown from Bismark, North Dakota explained the process of Regenerative Agriculture. There were many other speakers throughout the conference as well as educational programs based on creativity for the children of the families put on by students from Lakeland College. Attendees came from as far west as Black Diamond, Alberta, from the east as far as Gardenton, Manitoba, from the south as far as Van Alstyne, Texas and the north from Meadow Lake.
Dana Penrice, one of the organizing committee explained bale grazing as “A farmer hauls bales to a pasture in a grid pattern. The farmer decides
how many bales to haul based on the amount of their time, the business operation and the family required. The gates to the pasture are opened and the cattle run in. Some farmers like to go out every day, but the grazing time can be up to 20 days.”
The farmer hauls an amount of bales depending on how often he wants to go back out there. The number of pulls on the farmer’s time based on the type of operation they run, decides the time frame the cattle will be fed before more bales are hauled.
The conference started with a tour of Adrien Lanoie and Cheryl Hepworth’s winter bale grazing near St. Victor. Blain Hjertaas joined the tour to discuss how winter bale grazing benefits the soil.
A meet and greet took place at the Prince of Wales Center later on Friday evening. A registration and coffee was held
FARM PHOTOS WANTED!!
The Assiniboia Times is in search of farm photos for our annual ON THE FARM edition coming out in March!
Receive the credit you deserve for the beautiful photos you have taken around your farm.
Email your pictures to circulation@png.glaciermedia.ca by February 24th, along with a description and your name. Your pictures could very well be chosen for our next edition of ON THE FARM!
Please send photos as a high resolution jpg or pdf.
Former Broken Arrow student is enjoying ‘chasing musical dream’
Submitted by Greg Dandeneau
Chasing the dream as they say, is what’s been keeping Judah Wardrope busy as of late. Growing up in Carlyle, and after some tough years as a teenager, Judah spent time as a student at the Broken Arrow Youth Ranch in Wood Mountain. One of the many things that began to help resolve his inner strife was his passion for music.
Fast forward to 2025, and in the last year Judah has been playing all over western Canada, including Rockglen’s open mic at the New Horizon Drop-In Centre. He will release his first single ‘If I Die Tomorrow’ on February 21st on all streaming platforms.
Judah grew up on, and listened to just about everything from country, rock, pop, and gospel, just to name a few. Some of his favourite artists include Morgan Wallen, Luke Bryan, Johnny Cash, Brooks and Dunn, and even the likes
of non-country artists such as U2. Wardrope said he would classify himself as almost a country/rock mix.
“Country is my main thing” he says, but he’s not afraid to mix different blends of sounds or flavours.
In later years, after graduating the Broken Arrow program as a student, Wardrope came back to work at the youth ranch that once helped him get his life back on track. It was also around that time he was starting to play more music. Two weeks on, work at the ranch, one week off, hit the road and go play shows! Judah is now living on the BC coast and is a registered artist with the B.C. Country Music Association.
His first single ‘If I Die Tomorrow’ tells the story of a guy who has fallen in love, but wrestles with whether or not to tell the girl he loves her.
“On a deeper level,” Wardrope said, “the song is really about not wanting to
live life with regret. It’s almost a play off the idea of the Garth Brooks song ‘If Tomorrow Never Comes’. Just that idea that we all get these opportunities in life, what are you gonna do?”
While he is playing shows on the coast at the moment, he can’t wait to come back to the province he grew up in to have some fun and play more shows! Rockglen can’t wait to have him back playing at the open mic.
Local residents can find him and follow his career on Instagram (judahwardropemusic) or YouTube (JudahWardropeMusic).
toys and clothing, food and garbage.
New Household Packaging Accepted for RECYCLING
Effective December 1st, SARCAN Recycling depots, located at 116 2nd Avenue East, will be collecting the following:
• Flexible Plastics (plastic bags; stand-up and zipper lock pouches; crinkly wrappers and bags; plastic net bags; plastic protective packaging).
• Foam Packaging (foam take-out containers; foam trays for meat, seafood, or vegetables; foam protective packaging for electronics or appliances).
• Glass Bottles and Jars (bottles and jars for olive oil, pickles, jam, etc.).
The Assiniboia SARCAN depot is open Tuesday to Saturday, 10:00 a.m. to 11:45 a.m., 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Please visit SKRecycles.ca for a list of newly accepted materials or program background information.
The 2025 Recycling/Garbage schedule is available on our website or stop by the Town Office for a paper copy.
Reminders:
→ Are you signed up for Voyent Alert? All important messages for the Town of Assiniboia as sent through our Town wide messaging service. Be sure to subscribe!
→ COUNCIL MEETING: The next Council meetings will be February 11, 2025 & February 25, 2025. Council meetings are held in Council Chambers in the Asaskan Complex, 131 3rd Ave West.
The Holistic Management Canada: Ask Us Anything Panel with Educators, was held at the Holistic Management conference in Assiniboia at the Prince of Wales Cultural Centre on February 9. From left are Blain Hjertaas, Bronwyn Green, Don Campbell, Kelly Sidoryk, Ralph Corcoran, Bluesette Campbell and Dana Penrice.
Judah Wardrope
(SCC Multipurpose room)
The winners of the 2024 colouring contest, sponsored by South County Equipment, recently received their prizes, donated by
selection of winners was made by Kip Kyle, manager of South Country Equipment. Winners included Auraelia,
Missing is Logan, Rockglen, ages for five and under.
A Gr an d Th an k Yo u to th e go od Samaritan who happened to spot our brother Claude Bonneau in dire distress along #13 hi ghw ay east, January 28, 2025.
Your quick action an d th os e of t he Hutch Ambulance Te am and the Union Hospital Staff saved his life. Claude is now doing fine. Your blankets are at the hospital.
Once agai n, fr om the Bonneau Family, a big Thank You!
Recreation starts for spring program planning
Sherri Solomko Freelance Reporter
Many won’t hear, ‘There’s nothing to do in Assiniboia’ as the community’s Recreation and Wellness Manager, Steph VanDeSype, continues to commit to providing multiple opportunities for residents to take part in.
“We have had great attendance all winter at our recreation and wellness programs. We are currently running pickleball, badminton, ping
pong, volleyball, basketball, adult line dancing, and kickboxing,” affirms VanDeSype.
Ensuring that recreation and wellness opportunities are available for all ages, Assiniboia offers a teen centre, public skating, shinny, climbing walls, open play in multi room at Southland Co-op Centre, family badminton along with other options.
VanDeSype adds, “We are also running the playschool program which is full. We work with the Early Childhood coalition on under five programming, which includes parent and tot time, open play, and pop-up events. We are looking forward to a fun family day with this group as well.”
Assiniboia has two teams from town entered in HockeySask Provincials which are the
U15 hockey team and the Senior Rebels. The U15 team will take on Fort Qu’Appelle in their opening round of provincial playoffs while the Sr. Rebels will meet Oxbow Huskies. Both teams will offer plenty of exciting playoff action for hockey fans to experience.
“We love seeing the ice full all winter, we have run six tournaments so far, with three more to go. Whenever we have free ice time, it is used for public skating and shinny. I have to do some juggling once in a while to make it all work, but that is a great problem to have,” acknowledges VanDeSype.
In an ongoing testament to benefitting community business, whenever Assiniboia plays hosts to tournaments or other events and activities, it provides
economic spinoff for the town.
The community’s recreation and wellness leader said they are looking forward to the annual skating club carnival as skaters have been working hard all year to showcase their talents for their final show, offering a great entertainment option on Feb. 14.
It won’t be long before spring and summer planning are underway for the town’s recreation and wellness team. VanDeSype said she will soon be hiring staff for summer day camps, the swimming pool and public works seasonal staff.
“We are looking forward to another year of events including, Family Day, Canada Day, movie in the park, pool party and of course, the popular Better Together fundraising barbecues.”
the Assiniboia Peavey Mart. The
Grade 2; Brooklyn, Grade 1; and Nova, Grade 3.
Countless hours continue in efforts to open new Childcare Centre
Sherri Solomko Freelance Reporter
Never to be underestimated or taken for granted, it has been three years of continuous dedicated efforts and commitment by a group of parents who volunteered countless hours to tackle childcare challenges in Assiniboia.
What started as a gathering of concerned mothers struggling to secure childcare, has now grown into a ten-member Board of Directors of a non-profit organization known as the Golden South Childcare Centre.
“The group initially set out to assess the childcare needs in Assiniboia by conducting a community survey. With 55 responses, they quickly identified 87 children in need of reliable, secure care,” said a GSCC spokesperson.
The information learned from the survey provided the need, and incentive to take action. This resulted in numerous fundraising events, while also applying for support through Canada-Saskatchewan Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care Agreement.
“While waiting to hear back about the status of their application, the organization was overwhelmed by the incredible support from the community. Local businesses, organizations, and individuals stepped up with donations, sponsorships, and volunteer hours. Due to this generosity, the organization was able to purchase the building that once housed the St. Lawrence and St. Boniface Anglican Church,” affirms Nicole, board member of GSCC.
Soon after acquiring the property, the Board was ecstatic to learn that Assiniboia would be one of 41 Saskatchewan communities selected to receive funding aimed at increasing access to affordable childcare for families across the province.
The GSCC Board and volunteers stated, “due to the funds raised within the community and the funding received from the Ministry of Education, the Board was able to hire local contractors to begin renovations. Initially, it seemed that the renovation costs would require further fundraising efforts.
However, the organization was recently informed by the Ministry that additional funding will be provided to help cover the expenses. With this exciting news, and the amount fundraised to date, the Board is now confident that all construction costs will be covered, although they anticipate some unforeseen expenses due to the building’s age.”
With the arrival of a new year, the organization says they are thrilled to see significant progress on their dream to reality vision.
“Framing for a nap room has been completed, windows have been enlarged to meet regulations, and an accessibility ramp has been added to the exterior. With electricians currently on-site and plumbers scheduled to start soon, the Board is optimistic that the centre will be operational in 2025.”
Nicole Batty, board co-chair, acknowledged, “While it’s exciting to see the progress of the facility, our volunteers are fully aware of the work still ahead of us to design, equip, and staff a centre that will offer holistic childcare and create
Successful applicants must possess a valid driver ’s license and have, or be willing to obtain, Power Mobile Equipment certification and Pesticide Applicator (Industrial) certification Strong communication and the ability to work independently are required in this position. Experience in operating heavy equipment is an asset. Please state expected wage; wage may be negotiable based on skill and experience level. Competitive benefits package included This position is seasonal, with the possibility of full time to the right candidate In addition, there may be opportunity for advancement.
Résumés with references will be accepted until 3:30 pm on Monday, February 24, 2025 For more information, phone 472-5235.
Apply in confidence to: RM of Wood River No 74 35-2nd Ave. E. PO Box 250 Lafleche, SK
a developmentally supportive learning environment.”
Batty also mentioned that the lack of accessible childcare not only affects local families, but also the growth and sustainability of the community. The board of GSCC is dedicated to creating a centre that will serve residents for generations to come.
While optimism is high for a 2025 opening, Batty affirms, “Unfortunately, the organization is not yet able to announce a specific opening date. However, they encourage those in need of childcare to follow their social media accounts for the latest updates. The Board is optimistic that they have raised enough funds to cover the construction costs and are now shifting their focus to evaluating the expenses for furnishing and equipping the centre and playground.”
The GSCC Board also states, “Once the centre is better able to project an opening date, we will begin collecting names and families will be drawn through a ‘lottery’ system. We aren’t currently operating a wait list since we are unable to provide a potential start date.”
While there are no concrete plans for fundraisers as of yet, the board hopes to have a barbecue fundraiser in the spring so the community can come in and see the renovation progress. The online auction, which
typically takes place over Thanksgiving weekend, is also planned to continue.
GSCC also appreciates the donations of toys and supplies from community members and remind resi-
dents that they are accepting gently used toys, art supplies and books.
Contractors working on this project are Kimball Electric, Bamford Construction and Prairie Mechanical.
Looking for Land to Rent
Grace Hill Farms is looking for farmable land to rent in or around RM 44, 45 and 75. We are a certified organic grain farm
Contact Hart Smith c. 306-264-7891; Dwayne Smith c. 306-264-7892 or email: wefarm@gracehill.ca
Please send your CV to gm@mccordcoop.com
HOURS
Monday-Friday, 8:00am-5:00pm CONTACT
leannetw@gwae.ca or jenh@gwae.ca
Construction of the new Childcare Centre has started in Assiniboia.
Cecile Boutin
August 15, 1928 – January 29, 2025
It is with heartfelt sadness that we announce the passing of Cecile Fernande Boutin of Saskatoon, formerly Assiniboia and St Victor, SK, on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, at the age of 96 years Cecile was born August 15, 1928, in St Victor, to Henri and Marie-Anne (née Brunet) Bissonnette She attended École Maisonneuve and the Convent in Gravelbourg until Grade 10, later receiving her GED After her schooling, Cecile helped her mom maintain the house and care for her younger siblings On June 23, 1948, Cecile married Ronald (Bob) Emile Boutin and they were blessed with seven children Though Cecile s work was primarily focused on raising her family, her impact on the farm was important Cecile lived her faith in service of others She volunteered on numerous committees which allowed their small community to flourish Cecile loved hosting family functions never allowing anyone to go hungry Her garden s harvest was evident at Sunday dinners and every holiday celebration In addition to gardening, Cecile loved curling and playing bridge In fact, a month before her passing, Cecile made a slam For those who play bridge, you know the thrill of a slam Bob and Cecile also enjoyed travelling to the US with friends and they also spent many winters in Victoria, BC Cecile is survived by her loving family, daughter, Adele (Pat) Moeller and their children, Chris (Alison) Moeller, along with their children, Violet, Clementine and Kyndra Moeller; son, René Boutin; daughter, Laura Boutin; daughter, Ginette (James) Erlandson and their children, Joseph and Jack Erlandson; daughter, Janelle (John) Alderson and their son Will Alderson Cecile is pre-deceased by her loving husband, Bob, of 62 years (2011), daughters, Denise Boutin (1959), Gisele Boutin (1978); parents, Henri and Marie-Anne Bissonnette; brothers, Laurent, Dollard, Dennis, Marcel, Gerard, Joseph; and her sister, Marguerite A Memorial Mass for Cecile will be held at a later date We would like to express our sincere appreciation to the staff at St Ann s Senior Citizen s Village who provided such loving care and compassion to our mother Memorial tributes in memory of Cecile may be made to organizations that support mental health or the St Victor Petroglyphs Condolences for the family may be left by visiting www hillcrestmemorial ca
Bernard and Sheelagh Schauenberg
Wishing I could turn back time
To relive those moment s when I took your presence for granted.
Missing you more than words can expres s.
I love you Mom and Dad Lovingly Remembered Wendy
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Alcohol consumption can increase health risks for seniors
Patients are asked several routine questions during annual wellness exams. Among those queries are a subsection of questions regarding alcohol consumption. Doctors ask these questions to identify how much alcohol their patients consume and how often they drink. It’s important that patients of all ages answer such questions honestly, and that includes men and women over 50.
Binge drinking may not be a behavior people associate with individuals over 50, but this behavior is on the rise among aging men and women. Binge drinking trends among individuals 60 and over alarm public health officials. Older adults are vulnerable to various problems when drinking alcohol, which can lead
to bad interactions among people taking medications and increase risk for various health ailments.
• Alcohol can exacerbate various medical conditions. Age is a notable risk factor for various medical conditions. Changes in the heart and blood vessels that occur naturally with age may increase a person’s risk of heart disease and related health problems. Adding alcohol to the mix as you age can worsen problems such as high blood pressure and congestive heart failure.
• Alcohol can interact with various medications. Prescription medications come with a lengthy rundown of warnings and instructions, which is enough to compel many people to avoid alcohol when taking
Valentine’s Day ideas for retirement homes
Do you live in a retirement home? In this dynamic living environment, the possibilities for activities are virtually limitless. This Valentine’s Day, get in on the fun by organizing a themed activity for all the residents to enjoy. Collaborate with recreation staff to make it a memorable celebration.
Dance party: Decorate a common room with red, pink and white flowers, balloons and garlands. You can play upbeat or slower tunes, catering to the musical tastes of the participants. Invite guest artists, like a band or singer, to create a unique atmosphere.
Sentimental cinema: Get together with your neighbours to watch a hilarious rom-com or a classic romance movie with a happy ending. Show some Valentine’s Day spirit by dressing in red or pink and snacking on sweet treats like red licorice, cupcakes or strawberries. Get ready for a night full of positive vibes and feel-good emotions.
Improvised spa: Invite your fellow residents to pamper themselves from head to toe. Transform your space into a luxurious spa retreat with face masks, exfoliating treatments and relaxing massages. Serve rose-coloured drinks and heartshaped chocolates and diffuse heavenly scents to add to the spa atmosphere.
such medicines. Over-the-counter medications such as aspirin, acetaminophen, allergy medicines, and sleeping pills can interact badly with alcohol.
• Alcohol consumption should be limited to two drinks or less. As noted, a significant percentage of adults over 60 qualify as binge drinkers. That may alarm some older adults who do not feel as though they have a problem with alcohol but still meet the qualifications for binge drinking. Refraining from alcohol is arguably the safest option, but individuals over 50 who still like to enjoy a drink every now and then are urged to keep their consumption to two drinks or less in a day for men and one drink or less in a day for women.
cultivate
Couple’s Valentine’s anniversary date means sharing and caring
Sherri Solomko Freelance Reporter
Valentine’s Day means much more to an Assiniboia couple, who will celebrate their 49th anniversary Feb. 14, 2025.
From its historical significance to modern trends couples are saying “I do” on the most romantic day of the year.
Mark and Terrie Topola were married in 1976, on
Valentine’s Day, at St. George Roman Catholic Church.
Wedding celebrants often say the weather is always one of their biggest wildcards on their special day. Terrie says of their special day, “It was raining when we went to the church and by midnight, there was a foot of snow on the ground. It has rained several times on
and Terrie
February 14th since then.”
Terrie acknowledges that her husband, Marc, chose the date, saying it would be impossible to forget their anniversary.
Every year, the couple enjoys a supper out together, except Terri affirms, the year 1987. That year her husband had the opportunity to travel to Thailand and China for three weeks. She also notes that she felt the love as he had arranged for flowers and gifts sent to her on that day.
“Wedding decorations weren’t that elaborate 49 years ago. Our biggest decoration was our wedding car. A family member had bought a 1956 Cadillac limousine a few years earlier so we borrowed it. It was big enough to hold us and our wedding party.”
Valentine’s Day wedding dates are chosen because it provides a naturally romantic atmosphere, as the day is already dedicated to love, making the perfect backdrop.
For 49 years, Valentine’s Day for the Topolas holds special significance. I’m no mathematician, but I’d be pretty safe to say this couple have aced the perfect equation.
Assiniboia Elementary boys and girls’ basketball teams each attended bantam section playoffs. All three teams medaled
Watteyne, Hayden Barnsley, Khyan
Asilynn Andrews, Alexis Schuweiler, Sadie Jepson and Michayla Mehrer. They are coached by Mitch Rohrke and Sarah Feeley.
Photo taken by Orville Ottenbreit Photography
Mark
Topola were married in 1976, on Valentine’s Day, at St. George Roman Catholic Church.
The Assiniboia Elementary Blue girls bantam team won gold. They include: Marlie Burnay, Mina Ariss, Sophie Martin, Maisey Rhodes, Emma Helland, Makayla Willis, Cheyenne Berner, Gabriella Willis,
The
and will be advancing to districts. The boys team won gold and will head to Moose Jaw for districts on March 1. Players include: Emery Ruthven, Riley Gyman, Koy Gomez, Wyatt Orten, Arken Adraneda, Conor Hickey, Lihan Alberts, Zeke McCaslin, Lukas Koetterle, Foster
De-Gollo, Gavin Snape, Nate Rasmussen, Brock Ruzicka, Gab Sarmiento and Lincoln Bautista. They are coached by Joel
Assiniboia Elementary Red girls bantam team won silver. The team included: Haylie Peterson, Vira Korzhynska, Brooklyn Gee, Mya Huys, Olivia Auser, Kenley Bumbac, Mya Lewis, Kadie Eldstrom, Taylor James, Aubrey Sander, Jamie Ramirez, Shelaina Oncescu and Angelina Eutenier. They are coached by Adam Peterson and Cassidy Hall. The girls districts will be hosted in Assiniboia on March 1.
