COOLIDGE HEARINGCARE
The Senior Rebels gather after winning the Notekeu Hockey League championship trophy.
(Trainer), Bryce Hall, Bryden Silzer, Colton Lethbridge, Landon
Bill Hall
Derek
Riley
Dean
Senior Rebels claim Notekeu League Championship
Sherri Solomko
Freelance Reporter
The Assiniboia Senior Rebels have done it again, and it was done in fine style in front of a energetic home town crowd on March 21.
The Senior Rebels won the Notekeu League championship after Doubling the Yellow Grass Wheat Kings by a score of 6-3, in their fifth game of a bestof-seven series.
The dominance of this team was evident throughout the series.
Some residents and Senior Rebels fans say they believe a key core of players and coaches contributes to this team’s ongoing success. As well some of the players on the roster have moved from the Junior B ranks to senior hockey and have contributed to the team’s
success.
Assiniboia’s senior hockey team have always maintained a strong fan base with consistent support with many games well attended, especially in playoff season.
A team spokesperson told the Assiniboia Times, “In front of approximately 350-400 fans, the Assiniboia Rebels claimed the Notekeu Hockey League championship.”
The team also added that the Rebels had taken a 3-0 lead in the series with Yellow Grass winning game four, March 19, during an away game.
This allowed the Senior Rebels to claim the Notekeau League Championship during a game at Southland Co-op Centre on March 21.
“The clinching game
was tight heading to the third period where the Rebels took hold of the game with three goals to seal the deal, and win their 15th league title in the past 17 seasons. An incredible run for Senior Hockey.”
This is the fourth year in a row that the Rebels have captured the league title. There was only one year where no winner was declared due to COVID restrictions. The Senior Re-
bels held this league title from 2014-2020. In fact, local residents will see this team’s name on the league website many times under league championships. Team spokesperson acknowledged, “The commitment from the players and just the general overall camaraderie within the group. They enjoy playing together and for the most part, have been together for a few years now.”
In the back row, from left to right, are Sean Whelan, Jason Berner
Marit,
Malone, Marshall Ruzicka, Zack Evans, Braydon Delorme, Eric Duran, Scott Anderson,
(coach),
Lessmeister, Josh Bryant,
Fortin (assistant coach) and Dakota Helland. In the front row, from left to right, are Travis Seal, Lane Cayer, Jacob Eger, Travis Marit, Matt Morhart, Erik Paradis and Spencer Bushell.
Photo courtesy Expressions Photography
Men’s Bonspiel wraps up regular season at Assiniboia Curling Club
Muriel Fehr Freelance Reporter
Another schedule change was observed at the Assiniboia curling rink for the Men’s Bonspiel.
The Calcutta rounds ran on March 21 and the rest of the bonspiel took place from March 21 to 23.. As a rule this bonspiel happens in the last days of March closing out the season.
It was decided to hold the event on the last weekend of March instead, giving a few days leeway to pack everything away and clean up.
As this season was drawing to a close no one could be found looking forward to a new set of activities or joking around inside the play area. It was all business on the ice as the teams strategized how they were going to tip the odds in their favour.
With an entry fee of $280 and the opportunity of an $80 prize for every win up to the final in all events, the game was serious and planning took precedence over anything else.
One item that may have lightened the mood for the winner of each round was that the sponsor of each particular event presented additional prizes to add to the cash already won.
Frosty Foods had run the concession all win -
Kody Ray rink, Tim Cobbe rink, Jackson Fjeldberg
rink, Ben Gamble rink, Dale Berner
Tyler Bamford
Brent
Travis
Cole Payant rink, Dave Punga rink, Grant Selvig rink, Ron Lucas rink, Larry Thorburn rink, Quentin Coghill rink, and Cooper Nicholson rink.
ter and had the concession open all weekend for snacks, on Friday for supper options, for a Saturday steak supper and all other possible meal necessities. This winds up the winter session for Frosty Foods as well as the regular rink activities.
The Calcutta took place on March 21 with each team being auctioned off and prize payouts for each of four events. All the event
winners and runners up took 15 per cent and 10 per cent respectively. Added to the other prizes was a bonspiel raffle
with donations from the 14 sponsors of the weekend, and product being auctioned off from FMC, Bayer, Syngenta and BASF
during the Calcutta as well as a weekend ticket playoff package prize for the Men’s World’s Curling in Moose Jaw.
For Sale By Tender
Land: SW 17-04-04W3 SE 17-04-04W3 NE 17-04-04W3 SW 16-04-04W3 NW 16-04-04W3
Lease Land: W 1/2 09-04-04W3
Prospective Purchasers must rely on their own research of the property to determine 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 "Goodtrack Tender".
The Monday night Traveling League Champs recently gathered to receive their award. From left are Travis Eldstrom, Mitch Pituley, Nick Pituley and Chad Rogers. They defeated the Kim Flynn rink in the finals.
There were 26 teams that competed during the Men’s Bonspiel, which included regular draws as well as a Calcutta draw. Teams included: Lucas Richards rink, Reg Jepson rink, Tom Mountain rink, Zach Shelstad rink, Al Karst rink, Marc Leblanc rink, Jerad Dahlman rink,
rink,
Blackwell rink, Ian Coghill rink, Wayne Giraudier rink, Harland Lugt
rink,
rink,
Eldstrom rink, Al Batty rink,
Photo by Muriel Fuhr
African Children’s Choir celebrating 40 years with show in Assiniboia
Jason G. Antonio SaskToday.ca
The African Children’s Choir is celebrating its 40th anniversary with a performance in Assiniboia that will captivate people with heartwarming performances of popular kids’ tunes, traditional spiritual songs and vibrant cultural pieces.
The choir performs at Assiniboia Alliance Church on Sunday, April 20 at 7 p.m. The show is one of only two stops in Saskatchewan during the choir’s three-month Canadian tour, as it marks four decades of transforming lives through music, education and hope. Tickets are free, and donations are accepted.
The choir — part of a larger international Christian organization called Music for Life — is comprised of 18 children ages nine to 11 who come from vulnerable backgrounds
and extreme poverty in Uganda and serves as a “powerful testament to the resilience and potential of Africa’s future leaders,” according to the organization.
Each child has faced significant hardship, often with limited access to education, but through the choir, they gain lifechanging opportunities for education and personal growth with the potential to become “beacons of hope” in their communities.
The group’s 40 years of existence is “a testimony … that God cares about the orphans, and I think He makes that very clear in His word (the Bible),” Tina Sipp, the choir manager, told MooseJawToday.com. “And we get to join Him in that (because) we get to help the impoverished (and) the vulnerable in that.”
The choir’s longevity is also due to the generos-
ity that people have shown and the resources they have provided, she continued. This support has ensured that the choir can send donations to schools in Uganda instead of using that money to pay for lodgings.
This support has also led to a “profound change” in the trajectory of children’s lives and their families, the choir manager added.
On average, the group performs at four churches a week, or 16 shows a month, or 192 performances a year, which, over 40 years, is roughly 7,680 shows, Sipp said. That translates into hundreds of churches hosting the shows, thousands of families welcoming African children into their homes and thousands of people sponsoring the education of 59,000 Ugandan children.
“Goodness, that’s a lot of people (who) have
stepped up and said, ‘We want to help. We want to give of our resources to better the lives of someone (we) don’t even know and probably will never, ever see in (our) life,’” she said.
“I just think that’s amazing that people are that generous and that kind and compassionate to others,” the choir director added. “And I think we’ve done a good job of presenting the beauty, dignity and potential of the African child.”
The choir is performing at Assiniboia Alliance Church because it has sung there before, while organizers usually reach out to churches when planning tours to see if they are interested in welcoming the group again, Sipp said. The Easter weekend was available, so the Assiniboia pastor was excited to welcome the choir for that celebration.
The African Children’s
A full house rocked with excitement
Choir kicked off its tour on March 7 in Surrey, B.C., at the church of the group’s founder, Ray Barnett. He was on a humanitarian mission in war-torn Uganda in the 1980s when he transported a boy from his decimated home to the safety of another village. The boy sang praise songs in the car, which inspired the choir program.
The first African Children’s Choir performed in North America in 1984, while money from that tour funded the first children’s home in Uganda in 1985.
Sipp noted that Barnett’s church agreed to help him launch the choir, so she thought it was “a neat full circle” to perform there 40 years later. “It’s a beautiful story,” she added.
Please join us in supporting MOTLEY to win her battle with Embryonal Rhabdomyosarcoma
What: Wing Night Fundraiser
Where: Limerick Hotel
When: Friday, April 11th 4PM Close
All funds raised will help the Moneo family with medical & travel expenses!
Facebook Silent Auction April 7th - 10th
*details to follow
$2 per wing basket donated to the family by Limerick Hotel!
50/50 Draw! Donations accepted!
as the Assiniboia Senior Rebels brought home another win against the Yellow Grass Wheat Kings, at the Southland Co-op Centre on March 25. The Rebels claimed the championhip title and trophy for the Notekeu Hockey League that evening.
& Opinions
FROM THE SIDELINES: ‘THE DAMN WHEAT’
Norm Park/ SaskToday.ca
I have told this little story before, but feel it might resonate with some more of our fellow Saskatchewan friends.
Because it happened several years ago, I have taken the liberty of doing a little paraphrasing. But a couple of lines my sister uttered while we were making our way back to our home town after her many years of absence, stayed with me.
You see, my sister decided in her mid-teens she no longer liked living in Saskatchewan. Bald prairie, limited resources for things she wanted to do. All the things a typical teen might use to speed up the process of departure were high on her to do list.
Shortly after graduating high school, my sister departed for university studies in Toronto. She loved the lifestyle, also didn’t finish her degree because a little thing called marriage and motherhood got in the way more quickly than anticipated.
No problem, life went on for her now in the bustling city of Hamilton.
I too had ventured into southern Ontario for a trio of years in the newspapering business and enjoyed it thoroughly, including a continuing connection with her, but the prairies eventually called me home.
The prairies had not called my sister home though. In fact she had only paid a visit on three occasions. Once to celebrate Christmas with a young son, another to bring her tiny daughter, still using high chairs, around Easter and one other occasion to attend a high school reunion with a new husband.
Years rolled by, a couple of decades in fact.
There were no visits from her and it didn’t matter.
Then I received the news that our mother’s cancer situation had turned terminal. A few months, the physician informed me. I phoned my sister. It was time for her to come home to say goodbye.
My wife Jan and I, now living in Estevan, met Oralee and Ian at the Regina airport on a beautiful mid-August day. They rented a vehicle and we formed a tiny two-car convoy to east central Saskatchewan, to our childhood home where our mother was still located, holding final court.
We cruised behind their vehicle on Highway 6 and just a few kilometres before we were about to wend our way into the Qu’Appelle Valley, their vehicle made a sharp left turn into a farm field entry.
My sister got out of the car and waded into what could only be described as a perfect field of golden wheat, the kind of crop that could have found its way onto a co-op calendar if it had been photographed.
Jan and I exchanged looks of surprise, but we pulled in behind their rented vehicle and I got out to join my sister. Spouses stayed in the cars.
I wandered into the hip high crop to engage.
She turned toward me, a trickle of tears making their presence felt on her cheeks.
“Oh, it’s about mom, eh?” I inquired. “You’re thinking about her and what’s to come?”
Her response surprised me.
“No, I’ve done most of my grieving about that, but this,” Her voice tailed off. “It’s this,” she said quietly, sweeping her arm around and through the tall standing crop of passive gold. “It’s the damn wheat. I never ever thought I would miss it … miss this. It’s fantastic and I’ve missed it.”
With that, I discovered my eyes were turning a bit misty too. I put my arm around her shoulder and we viewed that huge, bountiful crop together, probably for a good two minutes with a now setting sun adding to the near perfect Saskatchewan picture in front of us.
We hugged then made our way back to vehicles. No probing questions. Just quiet time.
She had not seen a mature Saskatchewan crop in her previous visits. Crops that she had been ho hum about for all her growth years in small town Saskatchewan had now somehow and suddenly taken a grip on her emotions. She was taken aback by a special personal moment in a Saskatchewan wheat field.
Four months later she was back for the funeral, promising me she would make it back again to reconnect, not just with us, but with Saskatchewan, the province she had taught herself to hate, but obviously hadn’t achieved that target and now regretted it.
Unfortunately, this wasn’t to be. Within two years, I was beckoned to Hamilton to say goodbye. She had passed away, unexpected, untimely at the age of 49.
Some memories remain positive forever however and I do owe one unknown farmer on the south side of the Qu’Appelle Valley, just off Highway 6, a sincere thank you for giving my sister and I a wonderful unexpected connection moment that is seared in my memory.
And I promise you we did not damage your crop. We’re from Saskatchewan … we know those unwritten farm rules.
Governor’s Coalition is created to help strengthen energy security
Premier Scott Moe recently announced that Saskatchewan will be joining the Governor’s Coalition on Energy Security, further ensuring energy security across North America.
“It is an honour to join the Governors Coalition for Energy Security and I thank Governor Landry for the invitation,” Moe said. “Saskatchewan is abundant in oil, high-grade uranium, and critical minerals, which are vital to both our local economy and North American energy security. As a stable and dependable partner, Saskatchewan plays a crucial role in securing energy resources, strengthened by the strong relationship we maintain with our neighbors to the south.”
Premier Moe joins Governor Landry and 12 other colleagues: Governor Kay Ivey (AL), Governor Brian P. Kemp (GA), Governor Bill Lee (TN), Governor Eric J. Holcomb (IN), Governor Mark Gordon (WY), Governor Huckabee Sanders (AR), Governor Tate Reeves (MS), Governor J. Kevin Stitt (OK),
Governor Glenn Youngkin (VA) and Alberta Premier Danielle Smith. Former Governor Kristi Noem (SD) and Sununu were initial members.
Saskatchewan exports 21 million cubic metres of oil to the United States (U.S.) annually. The province is one of the most attractive jurisdictions for oil investment thanks to its stable regulatory environment and commitment to sustainable resource development.
Saskatchewan is the second Canadian province to join the Governors’ Coalition for Energy Security, which aims to enhance and protect energy options. This will lead to lower energy costs, increased reliability, sustainable economic development and responsible management of energy resources.
The Government of Saskatchewan recognizes the benefits of the integrated United States-Canadian energy sector and values its trading relationship. This collaboration is crucial to strengthening key relationships and emphasizing how highly integrated both economies are.
St. Patrick’s lunch fundraiser supports St. George’s Parish
Muriel Fehr Freelance Reporter
St. Patrick’s Day was March 17. To many in the community that also means the lunch fundraiser at St. George’s Parish hall sponsored by the Catholic Women’s League (CWL).
Approximately 40 years ago this event was in the form of an afternoon tea held on the weekend closest to March 17. The last eight years or so the tea party style of gathering lost popularity and the soup and sandwich lunch was launched.
The foyer and hall were decked out in decorations of green to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. This year the group decided to hold the event right on the special day. While 11:30 a.m. was the starting time, there were already two dozen people enjoying lunch by 1 p.m. and the first take
out order was already out the door 10 minutes before. The steady stream of customers didn’t slow down until about 20 minutes before the end of the serving time set.
The meal itself consisted of choices of potato soup or hamburger soup. Sandwich offers were egg salad, salmon as well as ham and cheese, all of which were served on white or brown bread.
A vast selection of desserts were set out for people to choose from, including a separate table for the gluten free requirements. Finally several beverages were made available. Preparation begins the day before with making soup and sandwich fillings as well as decorating and setting tables.
Early on the serving day after soup flavourings have melded they
are put back on to heat through, sandwiches are made, desserts are sliced and placed on plates and beverages are prepared so by 11 everything is set out for buffet serving.
In 2018 the tally after expenses was over $1,700, but for several years although the income was still positive the numbers dropped. 2023 came back strong with the take being over $1400 and 2024 was well over $1500. The final count of onsite customers was 120 which did not include the pre ordered take out lunches numbering 38. With the possibility of a few outstanding expenses this year’s success was spelled just over $1,800.
Since the general mandate of the CWL is service to others, funds raised here cover expenses for the year’s activities.
By Rev. Bob Scott, Assiniboia Alliance Church
‘It Has Only Just Begun’
Jesus made it clear to his disciples that it was now necessary for him to go to Jerusalem, submit to an ordeal of suffering at the hands of the religious leaders, be killed, and then on the third day be raised up alive. (Matt. 16:21 MSG)
We are now well into the forty days of Lent during which we contemplate the Crucifixion and Resurrection of Jesus.
Jesus’ idea of things as they ought to be was not popular. His claims for Himself set Him at odds with the religious leaders, among others. For Him, it was the “beginning of the end” because people would not “buy in” to the Good News He came to deliver.
His message was radical, new, and different. “Crucify Him’ would eventually become the cry of the masses.
But this is also just the beginning of a heavenly plan. The Resurrection will follow Jesus’ death. His terrible death signals just the end of what was the beginning of God’s program for the salvation of all who will believe from sin’s penalty.
God’s original intention was a perfect world. For this plan to work now, there had to be a sorting out of all the little problems that mankind had created. Unfortunately, many have insisted, since the beginning of creation, that they knew better than God how all this should work.
The loving and gracious Father did not want
to abandon His creation but, as a God of righteousness, He could not fail to administer justice. There was only One who could be perfect and capable of absorbing all our sins – God. Jesus experienced the punishment on our behalf. On the only occasion when the Father has ever turned His back and walked away, the Son was ‘forsaken’ by the Father as he suffered and died on the Cross.
The events of this Lenten season will mark only the conclusion of the first part of God’s plan of salvation for you and me. All that is necessary is to put your trust in Jesus as Lord of your life. You will feel God’s presence and have His assurance of forgiveness. But that’s just the beginning, You will be granted eternal life.
Notice is hereby given that the assessment roll for the R.M. of Bengough No. 40 for the year 2025 has been prepared and is open to inspection in the office of the assessor from 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. on the following days: Monday to Friday, March 28 to May 28, 2025.
A bylaw pursuant to section 214 of The Municipalities Act has been passed and assessment notices have been sent as required.
Any person wishing to discuss the notice of assessment or potential appeal may contact the assessor at: The Assessor, R.M. of Bengough No. 40, Box 429, Bengough, Saskatchewan S0C 0K0.
A notice of appeal, accompanied by a $50.00 appeal fee which will be returned if the appeal is successful, with: the Secretary of the Board of Revision Nicolle Hoskins or designate, Western Municipal Consulting Box 149 Meota, Saskatchewan S0M 1X0, by the 28th day of May, 2025.
Dated this 28th day of March, 2025.
Lara K Hazen Assessor
Inside the St. George’s Parish hall was a little Irish memorabilia in the form of recipes on a towel, a songbook and other items are displayed. No Irish event is held without the little prayers which are printed on cards.
Dessert choices at the fundraiser included gluten free alternatives. A sign is posted on the special needs diet table. Photos courtesy of Muriel Fehr
Our Town
Rocket Report: badminton team starts the season
By Niamh Hickey
The ACHS dadminton team has been busy with early season action.
The Grade 9 bantams traveled to Gravelbourg on March 22. This was some of their first time participating in badminton action. All the youngsters on the Rockets team showed plenty of growth over the tournament.
One of the Rockets highlights of the tournament went to the boys’ double team: Paysen Kuntz and Dalton Kwasnicki. The boys placed first in their pool then went on to place
In boys singles two Rockets players ended up playing each other in the semi finals. Luke Kwasnicki and Cohen Lespérance both won in their singles pools and played against each other in the semi finals.
Cohen Lespérance went on to finals where he placed second overall landing a silver medal.
The senior Rockets badminton team is set to head to Moose Jaw on Friday, March 29 for their first action of the season. The same day the Grade 9 team will be hosting a tournament in conjunction with the Assiniboia Elementary School. Both schools will be hosting matches as categories will be split between the schools.
The school Drama club has also been busy planning their spring desert theater performance.
Residents should set their calendars for either May 8, 9 or 10 to see some amazing performances by Assiniboia’s Rockets students. The doors will be
Southeast College plans strategic changes to Assiniboia campus to enhance opportunities
Southeast College is making strategic changes to its Assiniboia campus to better allocate resources and enhance educational opportunities.
Interim president and CEO Jody Holzmiller met with Assiniboia Mayor Sharon Schauenberg and council member Graham Harvey to discuss future programming in the region. Both parties agreed to explore course and program options that
Save the Date!! We are proud to be hosting the 2025 VOLUNTEER APPRECIATION EVENT on Saturday, May 3rd.
This year’s theme is #Volunteersmakewaves Together, we create ripples of change. We look forward to honouring our dedicated volunteers in Assiniboia.
VOYENT ALERT – Did you get the Repaving Open House on March 27th Alert??
The Town of Assiniboia used Voyent Alert system to send important information to our residents, & business owners. Follow along for ALL Municipal news – DON’T MISS OUT! We have lots coming up in 2025! Alerts can come via email, text message, voice call, or through the Voyent Alert app. You can sign up for Voyent Alert at www.assiniboia.net or call the Town Office at 306-642-3382 – We would be happy to help sign you up!
meet student and labour market demands.
“The college is committed to continuing to offer the training and education that benefits the residents and businesses within the town of Assiniboia and its surrounding communities,” said Holzmiller.
“We look forward to renewing community partnerships that support our goal of increasing programming opportun -
ities in this corner of our region.”
Schauenberg echoed the college’s enthusiasm, stating, “The Town of Assiniboia looks forward to future collaboration and partnership with Southeast College executive and team to grow our college to offer courses available for students in our province and area. We wish to continue the long sustainable history of the college and the
learning opportunities it has provided over the years.”
Southeast College’s strategic development team will also assess opportunities to expand continuing education, including industry and safety training. The college, which offers flexible programming across southeast Saskatchewan, aims to strengthen partnerships to expand learning opportunities.
ELM TREE PRUNING BAN
There have been confirmed cases of Dutch Elm Disease in Assiniboia & the surrounding area. The annual elm tree pruning ban runs from April 1st to August 31st. The reason for the tree pruning ban is that the native elm bark beetle, which is responsible for spreading the deadly Dutch Elm Disease fungus, is most active during this time and will be drawn to the smell of fresh pruning cuts and may attract infested beetles to otherwise healthy elms.
It is illegal to prune elm trees during the ban and it is also illegal to have elm wood stored in your yard. Please help us protect our trees to stop the spread of Dutch Elm Disease by honoring the elm pruning ban from April 1st to August 31st and avoid bringing Elm Wood into our Town. Thank you!
Paysen Kuntz and Dalton Kwasnicki
Cohen Lespérance
MJ Warriors to face Regina in playoffs at Southland Co-op Centre
Sherri Solomko
Freelance Reporter
The Southland Co-op Centre has had non-stop action all season, especially with so many exciting playoff series held there.
Assiniboia has once again opened their doors for another team, since the World Men’s Curling Championship takes over Temple Gardens Centre in Moose Jaw. This time the Moose Jaw Winmar Warriors of the SMAAAHL, will hold game two of their playoff series against the Regina Pat Canadians starting on March 25.
The U18AAA game will bring added excitement as they have loaded
up fan buses to come to Assiniboia and cheer on their team. All home games in the series will be hosted at SCC including the March 25 game along with March 29, if a game four is needed in the best-of-five series.
Southland Co-op Centre arena season slated to end April 7. While home team playoff season is over, the arena will still have ice in until early April.
SCC hosted a three-onthree hockey tournament on March 21-23. The annual recreation hockey tournament will be hosted on Mar. 28-30. Rink season winds up with Junior Rebels hockey identification camp held April 5.-6
Province budget has many highlights in it
The Saskatchewan Government released their budget Mar. 19, touting a minor $12M surplus.
Highlights for the 202526 budget released included tax breaks on income, housing and family costs. The budget also included funding for new teacher’s contracts and new urgent care centres. A focus on public safety will include adding more officers.
While all of the affordability portions can be found on online at www. budget.saskatchewan.ca/ affordability, with some of the highlights including doubling the active family benefit and eligible income threshold, reinstating home renovation tax credit and maintaining the small business tax rate at one per cent.
There was zero dollars put aside to offset potential
losses due to the ongoing USA trade war.
The Sask. Party’s promises during the provincial election campaign last October seems to be fulfilled in much of this newly released provincial budget.
Provincial areas of concern included in the budget include additional spending to shorten surgical waiting lists, addressing school classroom supports, adding more police and boosting revenue sharing program with municipalities.
The Saskatchewan Teacher’s Federation reaction once the budget was released was one of encouragement saying it was a step in the right direction.
Not all reactions to this spring provincial budget were favorable with opposition and labor voicing concerns over the lack of planning for tariff implementation and effects.
The Town of Assiniboia is accep�ng bids contract cleaning at the Assiniboia & District Public Library. Specifica�ons for the service contract obtained during office hours which Monday-Friday 8:30am-12:00 pm 1:00 pm-4:00pm
The Town of Assiniboia is accep�ng bids for contract cleaning at the Assiniboia & District Public Library. Specifica�ons for the service contract may be obtained during office hours which are Monday-Friday 8:30am-12:00 pm and 1:00 pm-4:00pm
accep�ng bids for at the Public Library. contract may be hours which are 8:30am-12:00 pm and 00pm
Applica�ons are to be submi�ed April 11, 2025 and may be dropped off Town Office, mailed or submi�ed by e
submi�ed by dropped off at the d or submi�ed by email.
Applica�ons are to be submi�ed by April 11, 2025 and may be dropped off at the Town Office, mailed or submi�ed by email.
Town of Assiniboia
BENEFITS:
131-3rd Ave West – Box 670
Town of Assiniboia
Assiniboia, SK S0H 0B0
131-3rd Ave West – Box 670
Email: finance@assiniboia.net
Assiniboia ox 670 0B0 niboia.net
Assiniboia, SK S0H 0B0
Email: finance@assiniboia.net
Anticipation of winning against Dad or Mom was the name of the game as the U11 Rebels took to the ice against their parents. These young players showed their best moves and in the end won the game, earning bragging rights for sure.
Sherri Solomko Freelance Reporter
Budget delivers record funding to support Saskatchewan agriculture
Saskatchewan’s 202526 Budget continues the government’s strong commitment to the agriculture industry with record funding of $625.0 million an increase of $54.6 million from the previous year.
“With this budget, we will continue to deliver the programs and services producers need, while investing in the long-term success of the industry,” said Agriculture Minister Daryl Harrison.
“The budget will support Saskatchewan’s ranchers, farmers and agribusinesses to take on the
challenges they face while continuing to meet the rising global demand for sustainably produced, nutritious food.”
Through the federalprovincial Sustainable Canadian Agriculture Partnership, this year’s Agriculture budget allocates $483.8 million to continue funding a strong, existing suite of business risk management programs, including Crop Insurance and AgriStability.
The budget includes $89.4 million for programs to strengthen the competitiveness, innovation and
resiliency of the agriculture sector.
Program funding supports a wide range of initiatives including: innovative work on pest biosecurity, disease surveillance and invasive weeds; research to develop solutions to new emerging problems; farm safety research; and an agriculture mentorship program.
Agriculture research remains a top priority in Saskatchewan and this budget invests $37.0 million to help producers stay competitive and profitable in international markets.
Over the past five years, the province has invested more than $166.0 million in key personnel at our crop and livestock research facilities, in research chairs to advance strategic priorities and in research projects that demonstrate innovative technologies to producers and agronomists at the local level.
The agricultural industry is foundational to Saskatchewan’s Growth Plan with several 2030 targets focused on agriculture. One target includes increasing Saskatchewan’s value-added agriculture
revenue to $10.0 billion by 2030, and the sector is on track to meet that. This sector is one of the fastest growing in Canada with annual revenue that has more than doubled since 2012, from $3.5 billion to an estimated $7.9 billion in 2023-24.
The province is also on track to achieve the Growth Plan target of increasing crop production to 45 million metric tonnes by 2030.
Despite some challenging dry conditions in several areas, Saskatchewan’s crop production totalled 35.5 million metric tonnes in
2024, marking a 7.8 per cent increase year-overyear and four per cent above the five-year average.
“Agriculture is a critical contributor to Saskatchewan’s economy and deeply integrated into the lives of people all across the province,” Harrison said. “We are fortunate to be able to rely on our agriculture producers to help us meet our Growth Plan targets for 2030, because they are the best in the world at what they doand in many ways they are doing it more sustainably than anyone else.”
Organic farm near Assiniboia faces uncertainty with pending tariffs
Sherri Solomko Freelance Reporter
A fourth-generation family farm near Assiniboia, producing quality organic pulses, oil seeds and cereals, is now left to wonder how the Trump tariffs will affect their business. Mylo Chubb says the majority of their customer base is from the USA.
Stonehenge Organics, owned and operated by the Chubb family has also built a state-of-the-art processing facility, which has enabled them to meet specific needs of their customers in providing quality, organic integrity to their customer base.
“We have an organic farm, ten miles from Assiniboia that spans over 6,000 acres. Our main crops include lentils, peas, oats and flax, certified gluten free.
Mylo confirmed that they just returned from Expo West, the largest organic natural trade show in North America, held in California. They have exhibited at this event for 14 years along with over 3,500 other booths seeing thousands of people in four days.
“To be honest, we are not sure of the impact tariffs will have on our business. Presently over 50 per cent of our product goes to the USA. The majority of our business is selling ingredients to end-use manufacturers, including mills, bakeries and canneries,” affirms the head of the operation, Mylo Chubb.
The family ag business acknowledged that their recent experience at the American trade show, everybody was talking tar-
iffs. Many booth visitors expressed empathy to their neighbors to the north.
“There is literally so much uncertainty as everything changes day to day,” said Chubb. “This has caused the forward contracting aspect of the business to be extremely difficult and on hold until tariff pressures are settled.
Stonehenge Organics has had several conversations with customers regarding various outcomes on how to deal with tariffs. We just don’t know until April 2, when tariffs are set to be implemented.”
Chubb acknowledges that their customers are nervous. The question remains, with people becoming more committed to Canadian products, and stores putting up Canadian signage, will these pending tariffs affect them or are their customers going to require less product.
“After experiencing there busiest two months in business, fulfilling shipping contracts to beat the tariff deadlines, we ended up shipping eight months of product in just over 45 days. With the latest tariff delay currently set to apply April 2 the urgency of delivery remains high.”
During the interview, it was easily evident that Chubb, like many ag producers, was doing his best to remain positive as there are many unknowns yet to be seen. However, the agriculture industry can be a tentative one due to rising input costs and weather uncertainties, the added stress of tariff troubles puts another layer of strain on those working in this industry.
Stonehenge Organics is a fourth-generation family farm near Assiniboia, producing quality organic pulses, oil seeds and cereals
Farmland values continued to have a steady climb in 2024
SaskToday.ca
The average value of Canadian farmland continued its steady climb in 2024, increasing by 9.3 per cent, slightly less than the 11.5 per cent increase reported in 2023, according to the latest FCC Farmland Values Report.
In Saskatchewan, average cultivated farmland values increased by 13.1 per cent in 2024, the highest increase reported nationally. This followed a 15.7 per cent increase in 2023 and a 14.2 per cent increase in 2022.
“The increase in Canadian farmland values in 2024 reflects an enduring strength in demand for farmland amid some pressures on commodity prices,” said J.P. Gervais, FCC’s chief economist. “The limited supply of farmland available for sale combined with lower borrowing costs resulted in an increase in the average price of farmland across the country.”
The highest increases were observed in regions with strong agricultural activity and favourable growing conditions. In 2024, Saskatchewan again led with a 13.1 per cent gain in average farmland values, and British Columbia recorded growth of
11.3 per cent. All other provinces experienced growth in the single digits. New Brunswick’s cultivated land values grew by 9.0 per cent, Quebec reported a 7.7 per cent change and Alberta was close behind at 7.1 per cent. Manitoba had a growth rate of 6.5 per cent and Nova Scotia reported a 5.3 per cent appreciation in value. Ontario’s cultivated average farmland value increased by 3.1 per cent and Prince Edward Island had the most stable values with an increase of 1.4 per cent.
Only three provinces reported higher growth rates in 2024 than 2023: British Columbia, Alberta and New Brunswick. There were insufficient publicly reported sales in Newfoundland and Labrador, Northwest Territories, Nunavut and Yukon to fully assess changes in farmland values in those regions.
Recent dry conditions across the prairies have led to a robust demand for irrigated land, with interest growing each year. Market availability of irrigated land is limited.
“With persistent dry conditions, the value of irrigated land continues to rise, reflecting its critical role in boosting produc -
tion and farm profitability”, said Gervais. Gervais points out that while farmland value appreciation is slowing, farmland affordability relative to farm income continues to deteriorate. This makes it challenging for those aspiring to grow their land base including young producers, Indigenous peoples and new entrants.
In 2024, total Canadian principal field crop production is estimated at 94.6 million tonnes, up 2.7 per cent from 2023 and 3.3 per cent above the five-year average. Lower prices for grains, oilseeds and pulses resulted in an estimated decline in main field crop receipts of 11.8 per cent in 2024.
FCC has reported a national trend of increasing farmland values for more than 30 years and 2024 extends the streak. The overall trend reflects the ongoing strength in demand for quality farmland and limited supply of farmland available for sale. By sharing agriculture economic knowledge and forecasts, FCC provides solid insights and expertise to help those in the business of agriculture achieve their goals. For more information and insights, visit fcc.ca/Economics.
Jesse rides the tractor with his dad on the Frampton farm at Mankota.
Farmers pay the price, regulatory demands called moot without data
Zak McLachlan
Western Producer
Frustration is mounting within Canada’s grain industry as persistent rail delays continue to disrupt shipments and inflate costs, particularly at ports on Canada’s west coast.
Industry stakeholders are calling for increased scrutiny and potential regulatory intervention, citing a recurring pattern of inefficiencies that impact farmers and grain companies alike.
Quorum Corp. president Mark Hemmes told the Canadian Crops Conven -
tion in Edmonton March 5 that the heart of the issue is in the railways’ inability to consistently meet demand.
While railways prioritize cost control and asset utilization, their primary obligation to shareholders often clashes with the needs of shippers and the broader supply chain.
“They’re always focused on controlling the costs. They’re always focused on asset utilization. They never want to have a person or piece of equipment sitting too long alone,” Hemmes said.
“But keep in mind, they
answer to the shareholders, not to the shippers, not to the government.”
However, the call for government regulation is hampered by a lack of quantifiable data. While anecdotal complaints from across the industry are plentiful, concrete evidence proving systemic problems is scarce.
Hemmes says government regulation isn’t realistic without hard data showing that there is a real and ongoing issue.
A key point of contention is the railways’ struggle with a lack of reliable forecasts
and the need to accommodate seasonal demand.
Grain companies argue that accurate predictions are impossible in an agricultural sector heavily reliant on weather and global market fluctuations. They also criticize the railways’ preference for a consistent, year-round volume, which clashes with the seasonal nature of grain harvests.
“If anybody was working for a grain company and had the ability to look forward one year and tell you what the crop will be like, they wouldn’t be working for a grain company. They’d
be making a lot of money working for themselves,” Hemmes said to a chuckle from the crowd.
“Grain companies are also criticized for having to flatten peak volume periods because the railways want to move the same amount of grain every month for 12 months of the year. Well, that’s just not how the global marketplace works. We’re a seasonal business. Harvest only comes once per year, and peak periods are there for a reason.”
don’t get the trains in the same sequence that they were released in the country. And basically that just turns the whole harbour upside down because they are expecting a train that doesn’t come, and then they have to bring in a different ship. So they’re playing chess with vessels in the harbour.”
Furthermore, the average time to move a loaded hopper car from the Prairies to a port has increased over the past decade, with variability also rising sharply. This unpredictability makes planning extremely difficult.
The financial burden of shipping delays ultimately falls on farmers, who are “price takers” in the global market, Hemmes said. Increased shipping costs translate directly into lower returns for grain producers.
“We don’t set the price. The price gets assessed globally. I know I’m talking to the converted, but farmers are the ones who actually take on the costs. So when the railways or shipping company increase the rate, it always flows back to the farm,” he said.
The data Hemmes presented reveals a clear correlation between rail car shortages at port terminals and vessel lineups. When terminals run out of cars, vessel delays escalate, leading to significant demurrage costs. Last year alone, the industry paid more than $30 million in vessel demurrage.
“We’re going through the same thing again and again. It happens repeatedly.… One of the biggest problems that a lot of terminals have is that they
Railway performance also consistently falls short of their own projected grain plans, Hemmes said. Data shows a persistent failure to meet order fulfilment targets. “They’re not meeting the demand, they’re not meeting their plan,” Hemmes said. “There’s an issue.”
The industry also points to a direct correlation between railway velocity and vessel time in port. When trains slow down, vessels wait longer and costs increase. “Put it simply, when the railway sneezes, everybody else gets the flu,” Hemmes said.
With grain production and carry-forward stocks projected to continue growing, the problem is expected to worsen. Industry stakeholders are urging a collaborative effort to address the root causes of the delays and ensure a more efficient and reliable grain transportation system.
Sales of tractors and combines have declined over the last year
Robert Arnason
Western Producer Sales of combines are a handy gauge for farmer optimism.
This winter, farmers aren’t feeling it.
Canadian producers bought only 21 new combines in January. That’s down 83 per cent from January of 2024, when farmers purchased 123 self-propelled combines, says a sales report from the Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM).
American sales data is
similar. In January 2024, U.S. farmers bought 460 combines. This January, they only purchased 97.
In more hopeful news, Canadian sales of 4WD farm tractors climbed in January, going from 49 in January 2024 to 59 tractors this year.
Looking at the bigger picture, sales of farm tractors and combines have declined over the last year in North America. That trend may continue in 2025, the AEM said during a news conference at the Com -
modity Classic farm show in Denver March 3.
“AEM data show 2024 shipments of LHP and HHP (low and high HP) equipment have dropped year over year,” says an AEM summary of 2024.
Sales of low HP tractors, used by suburban landowners and people with an acreage, have seen the steepest decline over the last couple of years. Shipments of higher horsepower tractors have also contracted, but not as much:
As of December 2024, sales of LHP tractors were down 24 per cent year over year and 13 per cent below the five year average in the United States.
For HHP, 2024 sales were similar to the five year average and 17 percent below year over year in the U.S. “That (high HP) market has been pretty stable over the last few years,” said Curt Blades, AEM senior vice-president of industry sectors.
“In 2023, we were trending above that line
(the five year average)…. (But) in 2024, we were seeing that deceleration of that high HP tractor sales.”
The sales figures for combines followed a similar pattern. Year over year growth was on the rise until the third quarter of 2023.
Since then, quarterly sales in America have been 20 to 40 per cent lower, year over year.
Blades ended the AEM
presentation at the Commodity Classic with some key takeaway messages.
Sluggish demand for ag equipment will likely persist in 2025 due to weaker grain prices, questions around biofuel policies and trade issues. “In the ag market right now, there’s a lot of uncertainty,” he said. “Until we get rid of that uncertainty, that’s the market we’re (in) right now.”
Fall drive with team of quarter horses at McBurney Farms.
Dump your old habits, recycle options in SW area are plentiful
Sherri Solomko Freelance Reporter
While Earth Day is still weeks away, upcoming in April, it is important reminder to Saskatchewan residents that they have multiple recycling options, as opposed to clogging up landfills.
Global Recycling Day was recognized March 18 and people were asked
to join the movement to make a positive impact on our planet, allowing the perfect opportunity to reflect on our habits, while making sustainable choices.
Recycling awareness helps residents learn how to turn small actions into big environmental impact. Households can undertake simple steps to help contribute to a greener
plant. Reduce single use plastics and if you are utilizing this product, make sure you recycle either at SARCAN or your blue bin. Make a habit of using your own water bottle or coffee mug and ditch those plastic straws. Embrace eco friendly, and/or reusable containers and cutlery.
Look for recycled products when making purchases, as well as making a habit out of reusable grocery bags. Create new habits out of purchasing buying less disposable product and opt for durable items to reduce waste.
Repurpose and upcycle by giving old items new life. There are hundreds of ideas on varying websites on making something useful out of products no longer used or needed.
Look no further than your own community for a number of options to help your household reduce, reuse and recycle.
A number of recycling options in Assiniboia
The Town of Assiniboia has curbside recycling with the blue bin pickup. Blue bins can accept cardboard, boxboard, office paper, newsprint, junk mail, magazines, catalogues, shredded paper in clear bags, plastic containers, plastic milk jugs, juice cartons, tin, aluminum
and glass.
An important reminder that there are items not accepted in blue bins. This includes clamshell containers #1, oil containers or chemical jugs, lightbulbs, plastic bags or stretch wrap, wood and metal scrap, diapers, Styrofoam, plastic utensils, hoses and rubber items, toys, clothing, food and garbage. Some of these items are now part of acceptable material at SARCAN locations, see below paragraph or their website for details.
The TOA also reminds residents that garbage bins are for bagged household garbage only. items not accepted are lumber and construction material, metal or any item sticking out of bin as lid must be closed for Lorass to pick up.
The town also says, they have offered a free tipping day at the landfill, however they have not had those discussions yet this year.
The Sask. Waste Reduction Centre has a hub where you can enter your community and the material you are looking to recycle and your search will show you the nearest locations this product can be safely recycled at.
Lightbulbs can be recycled as near as Rona in Moose Jaw.
Used oil, when
searched in SWRC website, shows a number of surrounding communities like Mossbank, Gravelbourg, Rockglen and Moose Jaw that accept this product.
SARCAN has added to their product list of accepted items beyond bottles and beverage containers which include paint, electronics, batteries, plastic bottle lids and have recently added specific Styrofoam and plastics. Check out their website for a complete list of recyclable products.
All TOA facilities have bottle and can recycling bins with the town utilizing drop-andgo options at SARCAN, with the money going back into recreation programming.
SARCAN reminds Saskatchewan residents in addition to beverage containers they take, people can also include household paints, electronics, and batteries for recycling.
Assiniboia’s Salvation Army Thrift Store location accepts gently used clothing and check with them on list of other accepted items. There are also options through community diabetes pick up days or taking items to a larger centre, as close as Moose Jaw, where there are drop off bins for diabetes (blue bin) and community living
(yellow bin).
Garage sales and freecycle days and social media sites are a great way to repurpose no longer used/wanted items in your house Silent H Trading Post in Assiniboia offers consignment clothing options for gently used apparel.
Looking to repurpose old suits and formal wear or out of date apparel –check with your school’s drama department as often they are looking for items that may fit their next live theatre production
Looking on the SWRC website again, it shows Kal Tire accepts used tires for recycling but it is best to check with that location and what is acceptable.
Use networking opportunities, either in person or on community social media pages, that can help share tips and tricks of recycling and reusing.
What each person needs to do is take ownership in seeking out answers to what items are accepted and where and how they can be recycled or reused, as it is up to all of us to take part in these practises for our future and the future of generations to come. Refusing to reuse results in an Earth that is abused.
Normal runoff levels are expected for south Saskatchewan
Sherri Solomko Freelance Reporter
The Water Security Agency released their spring runoff report March 14, indicating a normal to above normal runoff is forecast for most of central and southern Saskatchewan due to an above normal snowpack. At the time of this report, parts of Saskatchewan were still receiving more snow.
The report states, “Most major water reservoirs in southern Saskatchewan are at or above normal levels for this time of year and are expected to be near normal levels following the spring runoff.”
Snowfall throughout the remainder of the spring, and the melt rate, can significantly impact spring runoff. Longrange forecasts predict normal precipitation and near normal temperatures across Saskatchewan from March to May.
WSA will continue to monitor conditions and report on them as they develop.
Residents are encouraged to monitor local ice and water conditions and take precautions as they can change rapidly during the spring melt, leading to weakening ice and rapidly moving water.
To read the full report go to the Water Security Agency website at: www.
wsask.ca/wp-content/ uploads/2025/03/2025P-035-Preliminary-Runoff-Outlook-Report.pdf.
This report also acknowledges an above normal runoff response is forecast for the Regina area, the Swift Current area, and most of central Saskatchewan this spring due to an above normal snowpack present.
Snowfall throughout the remainder of the winter, and the melt rate, is expected to have a significant impact on runoff yields. A slow melt will result in most of the snowpack recharging the soil column, where as a fast melt will result in more runoff than anticipated due to less infiltration. Snowmelt runoff has started in parts of the southwest.
In the Maple Creek area in the Big Stick Basin, in the lower portion of the Frenchman River Basin and in the Wood River Basin above Thomson Lake (Old Wives Basin), most of the snow is already melted and runoff is underway.
The WSA added that Lafleche Dam made early releases of water to clear the river downstream of ice and snow in anticipation of the need to release more water this spring, while Thomson Lake is expected to be full following the spring runoff this year.
KAL TIRE
Grandpa Deringer helped Harley to drive a red tractor, at the Frampton farm near Assiniboia.
Ban on pruning elm trees now in place
The annual ban on pruning elm trees in Saskatchewan begins April 1 and runs until August 31. The ban is in place to help stop the spread of Dutch elm disease (DED).
DED is a fatal tree disease caused by a fungus spread by elm bark beetles. As the weather warms, the beetles become more active and are attracted to fresh cuts on trees. Pruning during this time increases the chances of an infection and puts your elms at risk.
Pruning trees before or
after the ban period helps keep them healthy and better able to resist all kinds of diseases, including DED. Pruning also removes the dead and dying wood where elm bark beetles breed, reducing beetle numbers.
Pruning incorrectly can damage your trees and spread diseases.
For more information, contact your municipality, the Ministry of Environment’s Inquiry Centre at 1-800-567-4224 or visit: saskatchewan.ca/forestry.
Sherri Solomko Freelance Reporter
The collective sigh of relief was heard after Canadians learned that new Prime Minister Carney ceased the carbon tax.
The announcement was also met with wonder on how this will affect Can -
adian consumers Canadians should be noticing the price at the pumps immediately but the price in other goods and the potential for lowered prices due to this CT drop may not be as immediate as consumers hope for.
The final quarterly re -
bate that was intended to offset inflation costs will come in April but Canadians can no longer count on this lump sum payment as they were accustomed.
Don’t celebrate just yet as Canadians will now factor in the upcoming price spike from the Trump tar-
iffs and this could very well outweigh the impact from cessation of the consumer carbon tax.
Perishable products on our food store shelves will feel the tariff pain first, likely followed by appliances and other goods in the coming months.
Harley welcomed a new calf at the Frampton farm in Mankota.
Norman Kemp Norman Douglas Kemp, longtime resident of the Harptree district, passed away peacefully, Saturday morning, February 22, 2025, surrounded by family Norm was born April 6, 1932, at Bengough, Saskatchewan He attended Harptree and Muddy View Schools After Norm’s schooling he began farming with his father, Les In 1952 he went to work for Bengough Motors He worked there until April of 1953 In May of that year he was hired by the National Grain Elevator in Harptree to manage the elevator there This job was short lived though, as in July of 1953, the elevator was closed After harvest that fall Norm went back to Bengough Motors to work, hauling fuel from Regina to Bengough He worked there until March of 1957 when he went farming full time In October of 1956 Norm married Beulah Tetreau, at Horse Creek, Saskatchewan For the next 60 years they made their home at Harptree and this was where their 3 children: Ronda, Doyle and Barry were raised Norm enjoyed farming and raising cattle but his true calling was driving the school bus For 47 years he drove the Harptree kids to Bengough for school In 2005 Norm began farming organically He enjoyed growing Kamut, an ancient Egyptian grain Norm was active in his community, serving on various boards He served on the UGG Board at Harptree for 29 years (19 of those as Chairman) He served as the Chairman of Harptree Clearview Cemetery for 10 years He was Secretary for the Bengough Church of Christ for 40 years He also served on the Board of Directors of the Bengough Credit Union for 22 years Norm was a faithful member of the Church of Christ Due to declining health Norm and Beulah moved off the farm in 2016, and into the Villa in Bengough Norm will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 68 years, Beulah Kemp nee Tetreau; Children: Ronda (Greg) Ashworth, Doyle (Debb) Kemp and Barry Kemp; Grandchildren and Great Grandchildren: Tim and Ashley Ashworth and their children: Mason, Ryker, Luca, Wilder and Avery; Krystal and Mike Devick and their children: Madison, Lincoln and Carter; Delee and Joel Noble and their children: Kai, Cash and Everett; Darla and Joel Ashby and their children: Sawyer, Paige, Blair and Jake; Dallas and Ray Rusk and their son: Cooper; Dalton and Jocie Kemp and their daughters: Hazel, Olive and Stella; Sisters: Vivian (Shelby) Severson and Marilyn Ross; Brother: Wayne (Betty) Kemp; Sisters-in-law: Arbutus Tetreau, Shirley (Brian) Haubrich; and numerous Nieces and Nephews; Predeceased by Parents: Les and Pearl (Buckingham) Kemp; Father-in-law and Mother-in-law: Bob and Nellie Tetreau; Sister-in-law: Marion (Floyd) Jacobs; Brothers-inlaw: Tom Ross, Gilbert Tetreau, Willis (Gerda) Tetreau, Norman Tetreau, Jim Guskjolen and Great Granddaughter: Eden Ashworth Funeral Service was held Friday, February 28, 2025, at 11 a m at the Bengough Community Centre Service was conducted by John Smith, Minister of the Weyburn Church of Christ Congregational singing was led by Howard Floyd Scripture reading was read by son, Doyle Kemp and great grandson, Kai Noble Eulogy was delivered by son, Barry Kemp Pallbearers were Norm s six Grandchildren Interment followed at Harptree Clearview Cemetery If so wishing, memorial donations may be made to Bengough Swimming Pool, Box 17, Bengough, Sask S0C 0K0
Arbutus Luella Tetreau
Gone to be with Her Lord Arbutus Luella Tetreau passed away peacefully on the morning of March 8 2025 at the age of 96 Arbutus was born on December 11 1928 in Meyronne, Saskatchewan
She was the fourth child in a family of seven born to Robert and Nellie Tetreau She was raised and educated in the Horse Creek district in southwestern Saskatchewan In 1951, she moved to Regina with her sister, Beulah, where they both found work In 1970, Arbutus moved to Weyburn to work for Western Christian College, where she has resided for the last 55 years She was a faithful member of the Church of Christ She leaves to mourn two sisters, Shirley (Brian) Haubrich and Beulah Kemp, as well as several nieces and nephews, many great and great-great nieces and nephews, cousins, and friends Arbutus is predeceased by her parents, Robert and Nellie Tetreau; her brothers, Gilbert, Willis (Gerda), and Norman; and her sister, Marion (Floyd Jacobs) She is also predeceased by her brothers-in-law, James Guskjolen and Norman Kemp; and nephews Dwayne Jacobs, Laverne Tetreau, John Longmoore; and great-great niece Eden Ashworth Funeral Service will be held April 12, 2025, at 11:00 a m at Piche Hawkins Grodin Funeral Home 601 Highway 2 North, Assiniboia, Saskatchewan, with John Smith officiating Pallbearers: Lewis Jacobs Randy Jacobs Barry Kemp Doyle Kemp Brad Tetreau and Bryn Tetreau Eulogy delivered by Barry Kemp Interment will take place at Horse Creek Cemetery Horse Creek Saskatchewan If so wishing memorial donations may be made to Clearview Christian Camp Box 43 North Weyburn Saskatchewan S0C 1X0
35th
INDEPENDENT ADULT
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NOW HIRING: Person to COOK & CLEAN for heavy (road) construction camp this upcoming season. Current location is near Saskatoon, SK. Must have valid driver’s license and safe food handling ticket. Experience in camp setting with 20-30 crew, an asset. Send resume with two work references to: Bryden Construction, Box 100, Aroborfield, SK., S0E 0A0 brydenconstruct@ xplornet.ca or fax 306-769-8844 www.bryden constructionand transport.ca
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Duties involve cleaning the shop and equipment, assisting in the service/ maintenance area, and general laborer duties. Clean driver’s abstract required. Job location is Arborfield, Sask. Room and board provided. Send resume with work references to: brydenconstruct@ xplornet.ca or fax 306-769-8844
Obituaries
Livestock
Obituaries
Local libraries an invaluable resource for communities
Local libraries are invaluable resources for residents, including students and their families. The value of libraries has been recognized for far longer than many may realize. It’s easy to overlook a local library, but residents who resolve to make the most of these venerable institutions can do so in the following ways.
• Get or renew your library card: The first step to making the most of a local library is to sign up for or renew your library card. Each member of the family, including children, can get their own card, which affords access to books on site and often additional texts and offerings the library can request from other branches.
• Acquaint yourself with all the offerings at your local library: Film fans may be surprised to learn libraries typically have extensive catalogs of films that can be borrowed on DVD, and some even allow movies to be streamed through library-affiliated streaming services. Libraries also offer services to adults, including seniors, and children that can range from tax preparation tips to passport application assistance to craft projects for youngsters.
• Open doors to new career opportunities: Many libraries offer career counseling services free of charge. These can be particularly useful to prospective small business owners, recent graduates looking to get a foot
Pharmacists play an essential role in health
March is Pharmacy Appreciation Month, a perfect opportunity to highlight the essential role pharmacists play in the healthcare system and everyday life.
These professionals are much more than just “drug dispensers.” They specialize in medications and healthcare, and their actions directly contribute to your well-being.
Pharmacists undergo rigorous training and can provide invaluable, personalized advice. Whether monitoring a chronic disease, administering vaccines or helping someone quit smoking, their support is invaluable. Additionally, their ability to simplify complex information about medications and their side effects helps individuals better understand their treatments.
A human approach: Beyond their expertise, pharmacists are empathetic and accessible listeners. Their commitment to their community extends beyond professional interactions. They forge human connections that improve the daily lives of thousands of people.
One thing is certain: their reassuring presence in the community is a real privilege, and their work deserves recognition. This month, take a moment to thank your pharmacist.
in the door in their chosen field, and even mid- and latecareer professionals who want a change but aren’t sure where to begin.
• Grow your social network: Not all social networks are grown online. Community-based events and programs sponsored by and hosted at local libraries can be great places to meet neighbors with similar interests.
Local libraries are more than just places to borrow a book. Residents can utilize an array of services to make the most of their local libraries. Find the Assiniboia and District Library on Facebook for information on their programs and services.
2025 ASSESSMENT ROLL VILLAGE OF WOOD MOUNTAIN
Notice is hereby given that the assessment roll for the Village of Wood Mountain for the year of 2025 has been prepared and is open to inspection in the Office of the Assessor from 9:00 a.m. to noon and from 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. on the following days: Monday to Friday, March 28th to May 28th, 2025. A bylaw pursuant to section 214 of The Municipalities Act has been passed and the assessment notices have been sent as required.
Any person who wishes to appeal against his or her assessment is required to file his or her notice of appeal with:
Nicole Hoskins, Secretary to the Board of Revision, Western Municipal Consulting, Box 149 Meota, SK SOM 1X0 by the 28th day of May, 2025.
An appeal fee of $10 per property appealed, made payable to the Village of Wood Mountain, must be received prior to the appeal deadline and will be returned if the appeal is successful. Mail fee to:
The Assessor Box 89, Wood Mountain, SK. SOH 4L0 Dated this 28th day of March, 2025
Vickie Greffard Assessor
2025 Assessment Roll
R.M. of Old Post No.43
Notice is hereby given that the assessment roll for the RM of Old Post No. 43 for the year of 2025 has been prepared and is open to inspection in the Office of the Assessor from 9:00 a.m. to noon and from 12:30 p.m to 4:30 p.m. on the following days: Friday to Friday, March 28th to May 28th, 2025.
A bylaw pursuant to section 214 of The Municipalities Act has been passed and the assessment notices have been sent as required.
Any person who wishes to appeal against his or her assessment is required to file his or her notice of appeal with: Nicole Hoskins, Secretary to the Board of Revision, Wester n Municipal Consulting, Box 149
Meota, SK SOM 1X0 by the 28th day of May, 2025.
An appeal fee of $50 per property appealed, made payable to the R.M of Old Post No 43, must be received prior to the appeal deadline and will be retur ned if the appeal is successful. Mail fee to:
The Assessor Box 70
Wood Mountain, SK. SOH 4L0
Dated this 28th day of March, 2025
Vickie Greffard Assessor
Southeast College has 5% cut in provincial budget
The Southeast College will experience a five per cent funding reduction in the 2025-26 provincial budget, the college said in a news release issued on March 24.
Total operating funding specifically saw a decrease of approximately two per cent. Prior to the decrease
in the budget, the operating grant for the Southeast College had remained steady for a few years, therefore not keeping up with increases in operational expenses, including bargained salary increases, general operating expenses that include utilities, insurance costs and routine
maintenance. In the news release, the college said an additional two per cent decrease this year in the total operating funding is significant.
The second area of the budget that saw the largest decrease in funding, at 20 per cent, was the skills training allocation (STA)
portion. These are the training dollars that allow the college to offer full and part-time institute credit programs.
Part of this decrease is a result of the conclusion of a one-time funding lift to offer a continuous intake in the practical nursing program. Through management of program reserve funds, this will not impact the practical nursing program scheduled for 2025-2027.
The college said it is thankful for an increase to its preventative maintenance and renewal (PMR) allocation of approximately 42 per cent. This funding is earmarked for specific PMR projects within college facilities, to be completed over the next fiscal year.
With the five per cent decrease in total funding, the college said it might be faced with continued ongoing complex decisions.
Driver safety is a focus in budget
The Ministry of Highways 2025-26 Budget of $777.0 million is a road map to enhance driver safety and invest in strategic infrastructure to sustain Saskatchewan’s export-based economy.
“Our government will continue to deliver on improving our transportation network to build an even better Saskatchewan for all who call it home,” Highways Minister David Marit said. “Our ongoing work will help families, businesses and industries better reach their destinations.”
Co-op’s Communities in Full
Co-op’s Communities in Full Colour Program is designed to give back to the communities we
A $421.0 million investment for capital projects will improve transportation corridors with multiyear initiatives such as:
• Passing lanes for Highway 10 between Fort Qu’Appelle and Melville, and Highway 17 north of Lloydminster;
• Highway 39 twinning at Weyburn; and
• Ongoing corridor improvements on Highway 5 east of Saskatoon.
More than 1,000 kilometres (km) of provincial highways will be improved for a total of more than 7,000 km over six years. Improvements include:
• 200 km of repaving;
• 245 km of medium treatments, like micro surfa
• cing; 480 km of pavement sealing;
• 95 km of Thin Membrane Surface and rural highway upgrades; and
• 30 km of gravel rehabilitation.
The Safety Improvement Program will invest $25.4 million toward intersections, guardrails, lighting and other assets.
Travis Marit with the Senior Rebels MVP trophy, presented by JR Ruzicka.
Senior Rebels fans come in all sizes in Assiniboia. Kira, Ella and Abby cheer for player Braydon Delorme during the best-of-seven series against the Yellow Grass Wheat Kings.