The room was alive with energy and the pews seating full at the Alliance Church on April 20 as the African Children’s Choir took the stage to perform. Composed of African children aged eight to 11 years old, this is a real organization that was founded in 1984 by Ray Barnett. The choir is a program of a larger international organization called Music For Life, which provides thousands of impoverished children thorough out Africa with the education, discipleship and leadership skills needed to rise above their conditions so they can bring positive, lasting change to their families, communities and country. The mission is to help Africa’s most vulnerable children today, so they can help Africa tomorrow. The choir represents the potential of the thousands of children in Africa who are trapped in the cycle of poverty. A truly amazing evening that would touch the hardest heart.
Organic farm makes significant donation to After the Bell program
Sherri Solomko
Freelance Reporter
It’s one thing to operate a business but it’s another thing to choose to give back to others in meaningful ways.
Dosch Organic Acres based out of Willow Bunch recently donated 225,000 packages of product to the Food Banks Canada, After the Bell initiative. You can find more information on this program on their website, www.foodbankscanada/after-the-bell
SaskToday.ca reached out to this southern Sask. business and they explained how this donation came about, stating, “What happened was we were at a trade show in Toronto last fall when someone who works for Canadian Food Bank of Canada had one of our snacks and took some
back to their co-workers. They review many snacks for this program. We received an email stating that they were extremely interested in our product, as this is a healthy, organic snack.”
The business felt that this was something they were interested in helping out with. The business owners said it took about two months to complete their project’s donation with a great team of employees.
“We will be going to Toronto in May to help fill bags and network with the media. Throughout the year, additionally, we do many sponsorships with sports teams, community events, etc. We also donate our mascot Big Kern to hospitals and children’s events,” said Dean and
Darlene Dosch.
Dosch Organic Acres also offers groups and organizations an opportunity to fundraise with their product, offering another pay it forward action from this community minded business
Their product, Wheat Crunch, is a health, ancient grain snack made from non-GMO grain known for its digestive benefits, and is available in nine different flavors, perfect for snacking or added crunch to salads.
From a previous interview in the story included on SaskToday.ca, the Dosch family say their business started as a way to raise a family, in a chemical-free life in rural, small-town setting, while keeping their business local and rural.
Mandated by provincial legislation, SoutheastCollege proudlyprovides academic,and skills trainingopportunities tailoredtomeetthe regional and industr yneeds of southeastSaskatchewan. SituatedonTreat y2 and Treat y4 Territor yand thehomeland of theMétis,the College is deeply rooted in itscommitmenttoreconciliationand community engagement.Asa cornerstoneofthe region, Southeast Collegetransformslives through thepower of education. By fosteringstrong communities and drivingeconomic growth in an ever-evolvingworld,the College playsa vital roleinshapinga prosperous future.The College is governed by adedicatedseven-personBoard ofGover nors. With threevacanciesarising due to upcomingretirements, theBoardisseeking expressions of interest from individuals eager to contribute as Boardmembers. Candidates will be assessedwithpreferencegiven to thosewho meet thefollowing criteria: Geographicrepresentation
BasedonSoutheast College’s operational footprint:
•1 representativefor ‘rural west communities
•1 representativefor ‘rural nor th communities’
•1 representative from Weybur norimmediatelyadjacent communities
Skills/experience
Ideal candidates will have exper tise in at leastone of thefollowing (not in order of impor tance): Gover nment,Educationsystems,Indigenous relations,Legal,Leadership experience, Southeast College’s operatingenvironment,Energy, Health,Trades,Small Business& Labour Relations, Management, Finance, Risk Management,Communications,and Marketing. Diversity
SoutheastCollege embraces diversit yand inclusivit y, actively encouraging
•Inclusion of individualswithdisabilities
•Equal gender representation
•Representationofvisible minorities
•Par ticipationofwomen in non-traditional roles
Submission
SoutheastCollege BoardofGover norsinvites interested par ties to apply, in writingoremail, before 1stMay 2025 to:
CJ Johns,BoardLiaison SoutheastCollege
Box2003,Weyburn,SKS4H 2Z9
Email: CJohns@southeastcollege.org
Pleaseinclude professional background, previous boardexperience, if any, and describeyour interest/aimsinser ving on theBoardofSoutheastCollege.All submissionswill be treatedwiththe utmostconfidentialit y. Theboardwillreviewapplications beforemakingarecommendationtothe Ministr yofAdvanced Educationfor Ministerialapproval
For furtherinformation contact CJ at cjohns@southeastcollege.orgor(306) 861-5751
Burnt Thicket Theater play addresses Mental Health issues
Muriel Fehr Freelance Reporter
The Assiniboia Arts Council brought in a fairly unique style of entertainment, held on April 2. The interactive play had one actor using a Theatre In The Round style of acting area otherwise known as an Arena Stage.
The event was hosted by the Arts Council in the gym of local Assiniboia Composite High School. The centre of the gym floor was occupied by a few props on a floor covering large enough for the acting area surrounded by chairs on four sides. A table offering information of upcoming performances and more from Assiniboia Arts greeted the community as they entered the gym. The interactive part of the show started early with a very unique set up. A small table sat against a wall just inside the doors with an array of sticky note books in
various colours as well as an assortment of pens. The wall above the table was littered with sticky notes carrying either messages or single words.
The Burnt Thicket Theatre is on a 2025 Saskatchewan Tour and was held from March 17 to April 17, with April 2 being their Assiniboia booking. With Stage Manager, Sam Fairweather along with Actress Elizabeth Nepjuk, the audience was entertained by the production of Every Brilliant Thing, a play encompassing the subjects of “mental health, gratitude, depression and suicide as seen through the lens of comedy.” This explanation had been offered by stage manager Sam Fairweather. Marni Chadwick was on hand to introduce the play, thank the sponsors, ACHS for location and set up and ask for audience participation after the show.
The play itself cen -
tered around the life of a child at the age of seven dealing with a family member suffering from the effects of depression. The youth grows into adulthood where she experiences a loss when the depression culminates in suicide. As part of her reaction and growth a list of Brilliant Things is started, stopped, continued and finally completed, numbering one million things she is so grateful for. Attendants of the play were asked prior to and directly after the night’s performance to add to the list on the wall. These notes are kept by the Burnt Thicket Theatre and added to the collected list of brilliant things. Approximately 50 people enjoyed the performance.
A photo from the interactive play was published on Page 20 of the April 11th Assiniboia Times.
RURAL MUNICIPALITY OF KEY WEST NO. 70 PROVINCE OF SASKATCHEWAN
Office of the Administrator Box 159 Ph: 306-459-2262 Ogema, Saskatchewan Fax: 306-459-2762 S0C 1Y0
Email: rm.70@sasktel.net
Notice is hereby given that the assessment roll for the RM OF KEY WEST NO.70 for the year 2025 has been prepared and is open to inspection in the office of the assessor from 9:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M. and 1:00 P.M. to 5:00 p.m. on the following days: April 25, 2025 – June 27, 2025
A bylaw pursuant to section 214 of The Municipalities Act has been passed and the assessment notices have been sent as required All fees must be submitted to the local assessor at the RM OF KEY WEST NO.70. All appeals must be filed with the Secretary of the Board of Revision, Nicolle Hoskins, which can be sent electronically to: secretary@wester nmunicipal.ca, or via post/mail to RM OF KEY WEST NO.70, Box 159, Ogema, SK S0C 1Y0, and forwarded to the Secretary of the Board of Revision. Any person wishing to discuss the notice of assessment or potential appeal may contact the assessor at the RM OF KEY WEST NO 70 Box 159 Ogema, SK S0C 1Y0. A notice of appeal, accompanied by a $100 appeal fee, which will be retur ned if the appeal is successful, must be submitted by the June 27, 2025.
Dated this 18th day of April, 2025.
Dean and Darlene Dosch display their products at a recent trade fair.
A Dosch Organic Acres employee helps to create their product. Photos courtesy Dosch Organic Acres
Boyd Holland Assessor.
Election: six candidates vying for MP seat in Souris-Moose Mountain
David Willberg SaskToday.ca
Voters will have six candidates to choose from in the Souris-Moose Mountain constituency in the April 28 federal election. Souris-Moose Mountain covers southeast and southcentral portions of the province.
Steven Bonk, Conservative Party
Steven Bonk is the Conservative candidate for Souris-Moose Mountain.
Greg Nikkel
Of the six candidates, Steven Bonk, who lives in the Wolseley area, has the most political experience. He was the MLA for the Moosomin constituency for the Saskatchewan Party from 2016-2024, and was to represent the party in the 2024 provincial election, but instead shifted his attention to federal politics. He won a contested nomination to be the Tories’ candidate last summer.
He was also the Saskatchewan co-captain for federal Conservative leader
Pierre Poilievre’s successful leadership bid.
During a meet and greet in Estevan, Bonk covered a number of different topics, including what the party would do on taxes, gun control and support for the energy sector. He has also promoted the Tories’ campaign values to “axe the [carbon] tax, control the budget and stop the crime.”
Lyndon Dayman, Canadian Future Party
Lyndon Dayman, who farms in the Windthorst area, is a longtime Conservative Party supporter who even ran to be the Tories’ candidate for the 2015 election, but was defeated by Kitchen. He was also involved with the local electoral district association and the party’s policy and constitution committee. But Dayman publicly criticized the process that resulted in Bonk winning the Conservatives’ nomination last year, and decided to run for the new Canadian Future Party in this election. According to the
party’s website, Dayman is one of 19 candidates from across the country. He said he likes the party’s grassroots approach and its tough stance on crime. He also believes the party has a better approach to handling tariffs from U.S. President Donald Trump than the governing Liberals.
Aziz Mian, Liberal Party of Canada
Aziz Mian is the Liberal candidate for SourisMoose Mountain. Photo sourced from liberal.ca Aziz Mian is running in Souris-Moose Mountain for the first time. The Liberals have not responded to SaskToday’s requests for an interview with Mian, and the party did not have a biography for him on its website as of April 17.
Sheena Muirhead Koops, New Democratic Party
Sheena Muirhead Koops, who resides near Macoun, says she has always had a keen interest in politics and her philosophies have always been aligned with the New
Democratic Party. She is running for elected office for the first time.
After reading through the NDP policy manual, she saw the language around which she has built her life. She read about the economic hope of people working collaboratively, putting each other first and thinking about rural revitalization. She believes universal health care is one of Canada’s greatest sources of pride, but it needs to be re-imagined to be brought into modern times.
Muirhead Koops decided to run after listening to U.S. President Donald Trump, and thinking she could challenge Trump’s fear-based approach by bringing love, care and hope.
Travis Patron, independent Travis Patron is back on the ballot in Souris-Moose Mountain. Patron, who was the founder of the now-
defunct Canadian Nationalist Party (CNP), ran for the party in Souris-Moose Mountain in the 2019 federal election, finishing last in the six-candidate field.
He is running as an independent this time around, but he has publicly identified himself as the leader of the CNP even though the party has been deregistered by Elections Canada.
In a post on his website, Patron accused the federal government of facilitating a radical demographic change in Canada’s population.
“This hypocrisy of biblical proportions aims at reducing Canadians to a dwindled minority in their own country in order to transition us into ‘the world’s first post-national country’ as communicated by the Liberal government shortly after their election to the Prime Minister’s office in 2015,” Patron wrote.
Remi Rheault, Green Party of Canada Grenfell resident Remi Rheault is running for the party for the first time in Saskatchewan and the second time overall. He was the Greens’ candidate in 2021 while he was residing in Kenora, Ont. He has had Liberal, Conservative and New Democratic Party memberships in the past, but now sides with the Greens. He decided to run for the party because of its political structure, which he believes would allow him to properly represent the people of Souris-Moose Mountain, since he is not required to tow the party line. He compared the structure of the Green Party to that of a co-operative, and he has 18 co-op memberships. He hopes to see a strong voter turnout for the election, which he believes would be needed to win the riding.
Lyndon Dayman Canadian Future Party
Remi Rheault Green Party
Travis Patron Independent
Sheena Muirhead Koops New Democrat Party
Aziz Mian Liberal Party
Steven Bonk Conservative Party
Editorial & Opinions
Norm Park/SaskToday.ca
He wasn’t that tall, but appeared to be strong, sturdy, standing beside me in casual vacation-like attire. We exchanged grins and those basic words of greeting when one meets a stranger who looks like someone worth engaging in conversation.
I don’t remember his name, but my first impression was borne out. He was an interesting guy.
Let’s call him Jack for the sake of this story.
Why he was standing at a newspaper’s reception counter in an east-central Saskatchewan town was intriguing. He didn’t necessarily look out of place, but rather, just interesting to the point I couldn’t resist the opportunity to engage him in a chat.
Jack was picking up the local newspaper, having spotted the business sign on a secondary street in Wynyard. His wife and teen-aged son were somewhere else downtown.
Jack stated they were on vacation, he and his wife were enjoying the Saskatchewan scene for a second time and this time with their son.
He told me he was a fire and rescue service captain in the bustling city of Hong Kong. He was the leader in one of about a dozen or more stations in that city.
Not wishing to engage in a formal interview, Jack was still willing to chat a bit about this chaotic job.
He told me how they dispatched personnel and equipment to fire and/or rescue operations. First, there would be a couple of guys with minimal (but vital) materials heading to the scene on a motorcycle since that was the best way to arrive at a situation in the most efficient manner due to the heavy traffic and the inability to move over to allow fire trucks to travel quickly.
The two forerunners would assess the situation
and quickly report back to the station. If the event was significant, then small units, probably ¾ ton trucks with fire fighting and rescue equipment would be deployed followed by the larger, traditional units.
“We learn a lot about rescue operations,” he explained. “So often a fire will bring all kinds of challenges.” He said that building codes and permits didn’t mean much. They could arrive at a 10-story building with a clothing manufacturer on the first floor, a paint factory on the third and a fireworks assembly on the sixth.
So in their world, the words cope, training and reaction meant a lot.
“We do a lot of rescues on the hillsides, carrying older people down, out of danger or out in the harbour, it’s a whole different story,” he added.
There could be a fire, drowning, sinking boat … all kinds of things to keep the day interesting and emotional.
There were usually six to 12 call-outs per day at each station. It could turn hectic.
“So why are you here, in the middle of Saskatchewan for crumb’s sake?” I asked.
“The quiet,” he said with an even bigger smile.
“I love the quiet. I am near retirement. We get one good paid vacation per year for a family and that offer expires when your kids turn 18,” he told me. “My son is 16, I wanted him to experience this.”
He and his wife had found Saskatchewan to be filled with and willing to share these special moments.
With all the cacophony surrounding the daily life and work in Hong Kong, the constant 24-hour traffic, continual construction and working noises, sirens, yelling and general street business bustle, you
FROM THE SIDELINES: QUIET AS A COMMODITY?
try to learn to ignore, he said, but you never get there completely, at least he hadn’t.
Now they were on their way to a place around Tisdale, where they would get to stay at a place, something like a ranch. They had been there on the first trip.
“It’s quiet. We can hear bees humming and the birds, and sometimes these animals … coyotes,” he said. They would climb on a horse once or twice and go for a ride and listen to the wind through the poplar leaves, the quiet movements of cattle grazing, and that’s it. Nothing more was required to stimulate the brain and body, just joyous moments of quiet or at least sounds of serenity, not chaos. Quiet meals. No bedtime bedlam.
Even in our town of just under 2,000 in population, he was enjoying the relatively peaceful pace and the people who passed by and said “Hi” even though they didn’t have a clue who he was and it didn’t matter.
I told him that was a Saskatchewan thing, hopefully adopted by other centres.
It was time for him to go look for his wife and son. He wasn’t worried about not being able to find them. So that was it. They were on vacation, seeking quiet.
Once he left our office, I couldn’t help but think, I wonder if Saskatchewan Tourism ever thought of that as a selling point? It seems we can have a lot of quiet if we want it. I’m not sure it should have a price tag, but apparently, it does have advantages for some visitors.
Writer’s note: Since this event occurred several years ago, quotations are paraphrased since no notes were taken, but were used to portray the true essence of the conversation.
WSA announces applications open for Ag. Water Management fund
The Water Security Agency (WSA) announced the Agricultural Water Management Fund is open for applications in 2025. The fund supports agricultural producers and local governments to develop water management projects.
Since 2022, the fund has provided over $2 million to help 93 projects across the province to obtain drainage approvals that support environmental stewardship and agricultural growth in Saskatchewan.
“The Agricultural Water Management Fund supports responsible and sustainable water management in Saskatchewan,” Minister Responsible for the Water Security Agency Daryl Harrison said. “Saskatchewan producers are great stewards of the land, and we know supporting our agricultural sector with programs like this leads to a growing and vibrant province.”
Applicants can receive up to $95,000 per project based on a cost-
sharing approach. It can be used for qualified persons support, technical and engineering costs, and mitigation and rehabilitation works for agricultural water management projects.
This program is part of WSA’s ongoing commitment to supporting the agricultural community in developing and maintaining responsible agricultural water management projects in Saskatchewan.
Eligible recipients include:
• Individuals or corporations registered in Saskatchewan who own, lease, or rent property for agricultural production purposes;
• First Nations in Saskatchewan; • Saskatchewan rural municipalities; • Conservation and Development Area Authorities; • Watershed Association Boards; and • Irrigation Districts.
For more information about the Agricultural Water Management Fund, or to apply, please visit: wsask.ca.
Pie Gals hold first monthly Gallery Pie Day, featuring Mile High Prize
Muriel Fehr Freelance Reporter
The Friends of the Gallery held their first monthly pie day on April 17 with hopes for a success rivaling their Pi Day (Mathematical Pi) event in March. Not knowing how well it would turn out or how busy it would be they opted for a couple of two hour shifts this round with the event running from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. to catch the lunch crowd. As happened last time, baking day took place on the Tuesday before. There was one change to the
pies being made though.
Upon entering the Shurniak Art Gallery, Allison Lewis of the Assiniboia Arts Council was on hand to greet patrons and offer a very unique contest entry. A small clipboard held a ballot containing three questions that needed to be answered from pieces of art throughout the gallery and dropped into a ballot box in one of the rooms.
The featured prize was a Mile High Lemon Meringue Pie. During the baking day the Pie Gals created one special pie
with a meringue reaching several inches thick.
Flavours offered included apple, blueberry, cherry, chocolate, flapper, key lime, coconut cream and lemon meringue of regular height. The blueberry pie came in regular and sugar free options. Future dates for this regular event are May fifteenth and June nineteenth. One can only imagine if other contests will be run.
There are several tours coming through with the summer session just around the corner. The Pie Gals have tentative
thoughts toward drawing tourists in with ‘coffee and’ events. With no concrete plans the ‘and’ part is currently up in the air. The draw for the spectacular pie was held at 3:30 p.m. with the winner being Lee Borkwood. Final numbers for the day topped off at 92 blowing past the previous event. Anyone with a sweet tooth, an appreciation for homemade pie, a love of the Art Gallery or a need for something new to do should definitely head down to the gallery on the next pie day. See you in May.
The Friends of the Gallery had full tables before noon. More made their way through the gallery finding answers to the contest in hopes of winning the massive pie.
Shelly Bissonette shows the Mile High Lemon Pie. Lee Borkwood won the monstrosity.
Photos courtesy Muriel Fehr 24044CE0-SK-ED
Our Town
Spring fire hazards exist until things start to green up,
Sherri Solomko Freelance Reporter
One thing about spring that all Sask. fire departments want to remind residents of is that the leftover stubble, grass, deadened leaves and other debris all can act like tinder to quickly spread a burning fire.
Intermittent snow and rain occurrences can help, but dry surroundings still exist. In fact, as of press deadline, April 17, Saskatchewan Spatial Fire Management System, daily fire hazard map, already shows a good section of the province in the
residents need to exercise caution
yellow, meaning a high fire risk level. This map is updated daily, if people want to check that out by googling the underlined statement above. It is also another continual reminder for people not to flick cigarettes out the window as the smallest of spark can ignite a grass fire, that can quickly spread.
While not near Assiniboia, and the recent rain experienced Apr. 14 in the area may have helped, the RM of Vanscoy and already issued a complete fire ban Apr. 15. In fact,
as of April 17, the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency has a fire ban list that already includes seven active RM fire bans in the province.
Proactive measures are vital to try and stop fires from happening. While the long-range forecast isn’t promising for moisture, things can hopefully change. Residents are urged to use caution this time of year as a combination of dry landscape and spring winds, things can get out of hand very quickly.
While we hadn’t heard back from Assiniboia
Fire and Rescue for this story, their Facebook page shows a callout to a grass fire a mile west of town on April 15.
The post cautioned, “Despite the recent moisture we had on the weekend, it is dry out there. Please remember to practise fire safety….and have a water source close by.”
We know that until we get some green growth again, its too risky to have any fires going. These cautions are to protect property loss and potentially any injuries as a result of spring wildfires.
“Volunteers make waves” The Town of Assiniboia wouldlike to recognize and celebrate every Assiniboia volunteer and each contribution they’re making to strengthen our community.
Together, we createripples of change
Please join us on Saturday, May3,2025 at the St.George’sParish as we show our appreciation with the annual Volunteer Appreciation BRUNCH Event.Doors open at 9:30 for coffee &mingle. Brunch Event begins at 10:00 am. STILL TIME TO GRAB TICKETS!! Complimentary Brunch Tickets are available for Pick-up in the Town Office.Toreserve tickets onbehalf of yourorganization, please call Tina at (306) 642-5003 or email exec_assistant@assiniboia.net
FREE LANDFILL TIPPING
The Town of Assiniboia is offering FreeLandfilltipping for Assiniboia Residents from Saturday, May 10thtoSaturday, May 17th. YOUWILL BE REQUIREDTOGET AFREE TIPPINGTICKET TO VERIFY YOUR ADDRESS, available nowinthe Town Office. Residential &Commercial Waste,excludescontractor&demolition waste Landfill Hours –located West on Highway 13, North onRangeRd3015
Southeast College announces president
Southeast College’s Board of Govenor’s would like to welcome Jody Holzmiller to the role of permanent President/ CEO. Holzmiller has been in the Interim role since July of 2024, and will officially be the College’s permanent President/CEO on May 1, 2025.
Holzmiller has been at Southeast College since December of 2005. With almost 20 years in the Saskatchewan College system, Holzmiller brings with her to the President/ CEO role a wealth of knowledge, experience, and relationships. She has performed a variety of roles at Southeast, the most recent being the Vice President of Professional Training and Continuing Studies. John Williams, Board Chair at Southeast says, “The stability, experience and sector knowledge Jody brings to the role of President/CEO is invaluable. Over the past eight months, the Board has witnessed Jody’s commitment to fostering a climate of trust, transparency, and accessibility.”
As part of her role, Holzmiller will network with First Nations, business leaders, communities, post-secondary institutions, other Saskatchewan colleges, international partners, and government officials at all levels to strengthen the College’s position in the region and province. These partnerships will enable students to “learn where they live”
by providing accessible and affordable post-secondary education in rural areas and on all First Nations in the college region. “Jody is eager to position Southeast College to play a pivotal role in the challenges our communities are facing. Forging strong relationships and fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration will be key elements in doing so,” said Board Chair John Williams. Holzmiller comes to the role with a Master of Educational Administration (University of Regina) as well as a Master of Arts in Leadership and Training (Royal Roads University). Jody started her role at Southeast in 2005 as the Executive Assistant to the President/CEO and Board of Governors. With her education and experience, she quickly moved through the ranks to a Vice President role and will now lead the institution.
“The Board is excited to work with Jody and we will support her efforts in moving the college forward during her term,” said Williams.
8:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m. |1:00 p.m. –4:30 p.m. Monday to Saturday Pleasereport to theoperatorbefore dumping, ensure allloads arecovered to prevent littering.
Please note: Compost &Branches are acceptedyear-round forfreeatthe Landfill. There will be no curbside compost pick-up by the Town.
Did youknow?
CompostBin &RainBarrelrebatepolicy#835 is away for residents to aid in the reductionofpressure on theAssiniboia WaterTreatment Plantand the Assiniboia Landfill. This rebate programoffer is available to residents of Assiniboia who:1.Have autility account in good standing, 2. Purchase arain barrel and/orcompostbin fromalocal retailer,3.Provide proof of installationattheir residence. For more information, visit our website at https://www.assiniboia.net/town_office/rebate_program_compost_bin_rain_barrel_.html or stop by theTown Office!
Assiniboia Elementary School Badminton Team includes: Girls Double team- Sadie J and Sarah C; Boys
Single- Houston H; and Mixed Doubles- Emery R and Chloe D.
Jody Holzmiller
Prairie South trustee wants next year’s budget deficit capped at $2M
Jason G. Antonio
SaskToday.ca
Prairie South School
Division has been deficit-budgeting for several years and using reserves to cover that overage, but one trustee wants to cap those deficits since they are becoming unsustainable.
Trustee Shawn Davidson introduced a motion during the board’s April meeting requesting that once division administration knows how much grant funding the province would provide for next year, it prepare a budget with a deficit no greater than $2 million.
“We have been deficit budgeting for a number of years and we’ve been fortunate to have the means to be able to do so to maintain programming around our school division … ,” he said.
A recent financial report showed that the division is facing a deficit this year of $2.4 million, which is lower than the initial projection of $3.5 million and better than the $4.5 million deficit last year, Davidson continued.
“We have to, in a very
controlled manner, be cautious about how much we draw down our reserves,” he stated, pointing out that the budget this year for instruction (teachers’ salaries) is $69 million, nearly $5 million more than last year.
“So this board has made a very significant investment in the classroom (and) it shows in the supports that are available in Prairie South,” Davidson said. “I (also) think we’ve done a very good job of putting students first … .”
The trustee added that capping the deficit for next year should allow the board to continue supporting students without facing a budget that escalates in a long-term, unsustainable manner.
Trustee Lew Young questioned the deficit cap’s upper limit and wondered if the board would have the opportunity to adjust it based on the data that administration provided.
The board then voted 9-1 to approve the motion, with Young opposed.
Second-quarter update
Ron Purdy, superintendent of finance, presented a second-quarter forecast and budget update during the meeting.
As of Feb. 28, the division’s operating revenues were $2.3 million more than budgeted, based on more funding for areas such as preventative maintenance and renewal (PMR) of school buildings, higher enrolment, nutrition and social services activities and extra early learning spaces.
Meanwhile, operating expenses were $1.3 million over budget, as more than half was dedicated to PMR projects, the report said.
Furthermore, the division projects expense areas like instruction to be over budget by $100,000 and external over budget by $497,000 because of associate schools, concession costs and driver’s education.
Purdy said the division
In reply, Davidson said the $2 million was a “hard top-end cap,” while trustees would have to make another motion if they wanted to exceed that amount.
has changed how it reports capital funding for the new school to ensure budget documents are more accurate, as it moved $1.89 million in road construction revenues to expenses. Moreover, it will report other capital funding income as separate expense items.
Meanwhile, some remaining uncertainties this year included higher CPP and EI contributions for the new teachers’ contract, unfunded wage grid increases for teachers, the carbon tax, and equipment, supplies, trips and professional development, the report said.
Overall, the division expects to finish the year with a deficit of $2.39 million, compared to the budgeted $3.4 million, while it plans to cover that hole through reserves and amortization, the document added. Also, the projected cash drawdown this year is $728,610 less because revenues are higher than expenses.
Trustee Patrick Boyle said the “one glaring thing” in the budget was the carbon tax, consid -
ering the division could see full-year savings of roughly $600,000 if it disappeared. Moreover, he pointed out that its elimination would reduce the expected cash drawdown to $128,610.
“… We’re almost at balance budget without that (tax),” he added.
Tenders Prairie South issued $480,248 worth of tenders between March 1 and 31, including:
• $69,000 to Duncan Roofing to replace King George School’s roof
• $14,319 to Cattan for Google Chrome OS li -
cences
• $183,394 to Gen X to upgrade computers and notebooks
• $10,370 to Grand and Toy for charging carts
• $5,245 to Konica Minolta for computer monitors
• $86,064 to PC Corp for new Chromebooks
• $52,817 to Staples Professional for 11th generation iPads
• $59,309 to Madera Playscapes/Blue Imp for the supply and installation of playground equipment at Prince Arthur School
The next PSSD board meeting is Tuesday, May 13.
OPENING DAY • SATURDAY, JUNE 7TH
LESSONS: SET 1, JULY 7-18 (2 WEEKS) • SET 2, JULY 21-AUG 1 (2 WEEKS) SET 3, AUGUST 11-15 (1 WEEK) • DAY CAMP, JULY 2-AUGUST 15 ONLINE REGISTRATION OPENS MAY 5TH!
Prerequisites: 13 years of age OR Bronze Star certification
Bronze Medallion challenges the candidate both mentally and physically. Judgment, knowledge, skill, and fitness - the four components of water rescue - form the basis of Bronze Medallion training. Candidates acquire the assessment and problem-solving skills needed to make good decisions in, on and around the water. Stroke mechanics, endurance, and rescue of others are included. Bronze Medallion is a prerequisite for assistant lifeguard training in Bronze Cross.
*A 20 hour course that includes a 400 metre timed swim within 12 minutes.
JULY 12TH & 13TH - $205
ASSINIBOIA AQUATIC CENTRE
Email to register recreation@assiniboia.net
Jam packed day full of activities to Celebrate Canada Day
August 21 enjoy our annual pool party.
BETTER TOGETHER BBQ'S
Thank you to our great sponsors!
July 8th-Town of Assiniboia
July 15th-E.Bourassa & Sons
July 22nd-Youngs Equipment
July 29th-South Country Equipment
August 5th-Nelson GM
August 12th-Assiniboia Ministerial
August 19th-Wheatland Dental
August 26th-Willows LLP
BRONZE CROSS
11:30-1:00: Aquatic Centre Parking lot $5 for burger or hot dog, chips and a drink. All proceeds go to Recreation & Community Wellness programming
Prerequisites: Bronze Medallion certification
*A 22 hour course that includes a 400 metre timed swim within 11 minutes.
AUGUST 16TH & 17TH - $190
ASSINIBOIA AQUATIC CENTRE
Email to register recreation@assiniboia.net
Bronze Cross begins the transition from lifesaving to lifeguarding and prepares candidates for responsibilities as assistant lifeguards. Candidates strengthen and expand their lifesaving skills and begin to apply the principles and techniques of active surveillance in aquatic facilities. Bronze Cross emphasizes the importance of teamwork and communication in preventing and responding to aquatic emergencies. Stroke mechanics and endurance are also included. Bronze Cross is a prerequisite for advanced training in the Society's National Lifeguard award (NL)
Richardson Pioneer Junior B Rebels Awards 2025
WILLOW BUNCH MUSEUM & HERITAGE SOCIETY, INC.
Seeking 2 Seasonal Full-Time Positions
Post Secondary BILINGUAL MUSEUM ASSISTANT
Work Term May 23 – August 28, 2025 TOUR GUIDE
Work Term: May 26 – Aug. 24, 2025
(Must be a Canadian Citizen between the Ages 15 to 30 years old to apply)
DEADLINE FOR APPLICATIONS: APRIL 30, 2025
Email: Resumes To: wbmusuem72@gmail.com or mail to: Willow Bunch Museum Box 157 Willow Bunch, SK S0H 4K0
For More Information, please visit our website @ www.willowbunchmuseum.ca
Health care recruitment incentives expanded to 70 communities
An additional 16 locations will benefit from Saskatchewan’s Rural and Remote Recruitment Incentive (RRRI) program.
Seventy communities are now eligible for the program.
This incentive of up to $50,000 for a three-year return-in-service is offered to new, permanent full-time employees in nine high-priority health occupations in rural and remote communities experiencing or at risk of service disruptions due to staffing challenges.
Sealed tenders will be received by the undersigned until 1600 hours (CST), April 29, 2025 for the following ser vice contract: Grounds Maintenance Person
The contractor will be responsible to provide lawn maintenance for the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, Assiniboia, SK, building grounds for the months beginning May 1st, 2025 through to October 15, 2025.
Complete job description can be requested by email: RCMP.FAssiniboiaDetachmentFDetachementAssiniboia.GRC@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
Mail tender to: NCO i/c Royal Canadian Mounted Police 101 Dominion Road Box 1358 Assiniboia, SK. S0H 0B0
More than 420 hard-torecruit positions have been filled as a direct result of the RRRI program, according to Saskatchewan Health.
The 16 new communities where the incentive is now offered are: Arborfield, Balcarres, Beechy, Candle Lake, Carrot River, Central Butte, Cut Knife, Elrose, Foam Lake, Grenfell, Kerrobert, Maryfield, Pinehouse Lake, Raymore, Spiritwood and Wakaw.
“We continue to work to stabilize local health care services for residents of rural communities,” Saskatchewan Health Authority’s (SHA) VicePresident Integrated Rural Health Brenda Schwan said. “This incentive will help us ensure that residents continue to get the care they need closer to home.”
A complete listing of the 70 communities and the nine occupations, as well as details on eligibility and how to apply are available at Saskatchewan Rural and Remote Recruitment Incentive.
Details on health care opportunities, how to access them and information on the province’s HHR Action Plan to recruit, train, incentivize and retain more health professionals are available at saskatchewan.ca/HHR.
Presented by Curtis Nelson
Presented by Carly Tendler
Presented by Curtis Nelson
Presented by Curtis Nelson
Presented by Curtis Nelson
Presented by Curtis Nelson
Presented by Curtis Nelson
RCMP request information, break and enter reports in Assiniboia
Tthe Assiniboia RCMP responded to two separate break and enters on April 3 that are believed to have occurred overnight between 8 p.m. on April 2, 2025, and 8 a.m. of April 3, 2025.
The first reported break and enter occurred at business of the 200 block of Second Avenue West in Assiniboia. The second reported break and enter occurred at a business on the 100 block of Centre Street, also in Assiniboia.
It is believed that these two incidents may be related.
Through investigation, surveillance footage was obtained from a neighbouring business of an individual who is believed to have information regarding these incidents. The Assiniboia RCMP is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying the individual pictured.
Mischief
RM Willow Bunch
The Assiniboia RCMP request the public’s assistance in locating the
person(s) responsible for a mischief that occurred in the Rural Municipality of Willow Bunch sometime around March 2, 2025. The person(s) responsible struck and removed road signs on Highway 2 near the Village of Lisieux. Both signs were later recovered, both along Range Road 2300 near the community of St. Victor. It is noted that this is the third reported incident of this nature in area in the last year.
Additional B&E Reports
Between March 27, 2025, and April 1, 2025, the Assiniboia RCMP responded to two separate break and enters to automotive repair businesses.
The first reported incident is believed to have occurred overnight between 6:00p.m. on March 26, 2025, and 11:30a.m. on March 27, 2025. The incident occurred at automotive repair business on the 300 block of 1 Avenue West in Assiniboia.
The timeframe of the second reported incident
is unknown. It occurred at an automotive repair business on the 100 block of First Avenue West in Assiniboia.
It is believed that these two incidents may be related.
Officers continue to investigate.
The Assiniboia RCMP request the public’s assistance in locating the person(s) responsible for a repeated theft of fuel that occurred in the RM of Lake of the Rivers sometime between February 24, 2025 and March 14, 2025. The person(s) responsible stole fuel out of tanks and jerry cans at a property along Highway 717.
A rusted white Jeep was noted to be in the area at the time as well.
If you have information regarding this or any other crime, please contact Assiniboia RCMP at 306-642-7110. To submit information anonymously, one can call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), or online at www. saskcrimestoppers.com.
Reduce, Reuse and Recycle
RCMP are seeking any information on a break and enter that was reported in Assiniboia, based off this surveillance footage.
Assiniboia Minor Hockey awards
Retiring board members: Randy Hillmer, Ashley Karst and Trenton Karst Tim Peterson (missing)
Other Top Awards (missing from photos): Wayne Dombowsky Memorial Top Junior Official Award. Presented to Chasel Woolhouse Bachiu Award Presented to Boston Beauchesne
U9 Team 2 awards
Presidents award - Trenton Karst and Randy Hillmer, presented by president Josh Ermel.
Power Skate Award Presented to Owen Rasmussen by Travis Marit.
AMHA Top Official Award Presented to Issac Rivard by Travis Marit and Josh Ermel.
Barry Karst Award Presented to Langston Gold by Trenton Karst.
Gerti-Ann Walters Award. Presented to AJ Beliveau by Josh Ermel.
Kenny Helland Memorial Award Presented to Langston Gold by Josh Ermel.
Lyle Erfle Top Defenseman Award Presented to Van Sinclair by Josh Ermel.
Coaches Award. Presented to Alex Hicks and Matt Morhart (missing) by Josh Ermel.
Back row: coaches Jarrett Orten, Mike Layden, Chase Dahlman, Colton Lethbridge. Standing: Cullen Layden, Axton Hoffos, Ben Mohr, TJ VanDeSype, Chase Gibney, Blake Martin, Lexi Tendler, Ky Orten.
Kneeling: Joe Cobbe, Elle Pickens, Kendal Krusky. Front Row: Levi Lethbridge, Hudson Pickens, Theo Ariss, Reeve Dahlman, Connor Ruzicka. There was several players from the U7 team missing for awards night, but every players received a Participation Medal.
Most Valuable Player Presented to Everett Rogers by Chad Rogers.
Most Sportsman Like Presented Mason Thompson by Jared Karst.
Most Dedicated Presented to Jace Karst by Jared Karst.
Most Improved Award. Presented to Beckett Brost by Jared Karst.
Assiniboia Minor Hockey awards
U9 Team 1 awards U13 awards
awards U18 awards
Most
Most
U18 Photos missing: Most DedicatedPresented to Coy Lalonde and Andrew Paraniuk Most Sportsmanlike- Presented to Tyven Paterson
Most Valuable Player and Most Points. Presented to Langston Gold by Allen Powell.
Most Improved Presented to Drayden Fafard by Allen Powell.
Valuable Player and Most Points Presented to Paysen Kuntz by Alex Hicks.
Team Henry Most Improved Presented to Jack Nagel and Dru Kellsey by Mike Nagel and Colby Thomas.
Team Henry Most Dedicated Presented to Jasper Lemieux by Mike Nagel.
Team Henry Most Points Presented to Treyton Pituley by Mike Nagel.
Most Dedicated Presented to Houston Hillmer by Alex Hicks.
Improved Presented to Dalton Kwasnicki by Alex Hicks.
Team Henry Most Valuable Player Presented to Maguire Pituley by Mike Nagel.
Team Henry Most Sportsman Like Presented to Emmet Thomas by Colby Thomas.
Missing: Most Sportsmanlike presented to Brayden Woolhouse.
U11 Missing: Most Improved Presented to Rhett Pituley
Most Points Award Presented to Lyndon Ruthven
Team Brian Most Valuabe Player Presented to Hunter Christopherson by Jeff Christopherson.
Team Brian Most Sportsman Like Presented to Trey Jepson by Jeff Christopherson.
Team Brian Most Improved Presented to Jax Snowden by Jeff Christopherson.
Team Brian Most Dedicated Presented to Issac Rivard by Jeff Christopherson.
Team Brian Most Points Presented to Emery Ruthven by Jeff Christopherson.
Most Valuable Player Presented to Ryker Pituley by Jeff Christopherson.
Most Sportsman Like Presented to Dawson Brost by Jeff Christopherson.
Most Dedicated Presented to Reese Orten by Jeff Christopherson.
Most Valuable Player Presented to Jack Tendler by Josh Tendler.
Most Improved Presented to Luke Willis by Josh Tendler.
Most Dedicated Presented to Fynleigh Pituley by Josh Tendler.
Most Sportsman Like Presented to Zennon Loucks by Josh Tendler.
Betty Deobald
Betty Deobald (nee Nash) of Assiniboia, SK, passed away January 2, 2024 at age 85 Betty Joyce Nash was born January 21, 1939, at the family farm at Buffalo Gap, Saskatchewan She was the youngest of eight siblings born to Dallas and Margaret (Wright) Nash She attended Red Butte School and hated every minute of it Between getting lost in snowstorms, or being followed by wolves, she completed grade 7, then quit to help on the farm Her brothers and sisters were good friends and remained close their entire lives She met and married Gerry Reid in Bengough in 1960 They made their home in Assiniboia, and Betty did the books for Gerry s electrical business, as well has being a full time house wife and mother of two boys Garnet and Larry Although Gerry died in 1977, it wasn t from the lack of her care for him Betty was very creative and talented, she could and did write many poems for family events, or for people she loved She loved to sew, and made countless wedding gowns, bridesmaid and graduation dresses, and many outfits and pieces for her loved ones and others She spent years doing alterations out of her home She also had a great love of animals, except mice and one or two of Garner s bulls Betty and Bill Deobald were lucky to have met at a dance in Moose Jaw Little did they know that dancing would become so important in their time together They were married April 13, 1990, in a beautiful country wedding, in a country church near their home at Hodgeville Bill and Betty loved to attend polka fests, and every weekend they would hook up the fifth wheel and be off dancing They made many good lifelong friends and enjoyed every minute of their time together Betty was a huge supporter of Bill s woodworking, and she did the painting if there was any that needed special decorating Betty s greatest love in life was her family Those left to remember and miss her are her husband, Bill, son Garnet and his children Jeremy (Karmen) Jace and Bennett Sean (Adrienne) Alexa and Isla Jill and Lara (Lukas) Scarlett, Maisie and Hannah; son Larry and his children Emily and Ty; Her step children Randy (Kris) and their children Kira, Tanner (Hailey) Elsie, Luke (Jessica) Charlotte Garner (Lori) and their children Rhett (Brandee) Dryden and Ainslee Bre (Todd Horsman) Ayden and Evan Kylie (Brian Hawkins) Griffen and Ander Lorna (Mike Gruenberg) and son Jason Betty also leaves to cherish her memory two sisters Amy Mossing, and Jean Hall, special niece/sister Joyce Currie, and brother-in-law Henry Rosler, as well as many nieces and nephews Betty was predeceased by her husband Gerry, her daughters-in-law Karen Reid and Lisa Reid; Parents Margaret (Wright) and Dallas Nash, infant sister Fern, sisters Thelma Sundahl and Beulah Rosler, brothers Robert Nash, and Delano Nash; brothers-in-law Harold Sundahl, Oscar Mossing and John Hall, special nephews Harold Reid, Allan Reid, Kim Hall and niece Shelley Ambrose A family graveside service will be held at Mount Hope Cemetery, Assiniboia, SK Fond memories and expressions of sympathy for the Reid and Deobald family may be shared at www rossfuneralservice com Arrangements entrusted to Ross Funeral Service, Assiniboia, SK 306-6423373
Shirley Ann Wallace (née Lawrence) January 30, 1940 – April 8, 2025
Shirley Ann Wallace passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by family, on April 8, 2025, in Swift Current, Saskatchewan, at the age of 85 Born January 30, 1940, in Kincaid, Saskatchewan and formerly of Mankota, Shirley devoted her life to her family and home A loving wife mother grandmother greatgrandmother and friend she will be remembered for her warmth grace and the deep love she gave to those around her On October 9, 1959, Shirley married the love of her life, George
Wallace Together, they shared 65 and a half wonderful years of marriage She is survived by her beloved husband George; daughters Cindy (Vern) Wilkins and Debbie (Stan) Scribner; and her cherished grandchildren: Amy, Tiffany (Garth), Kaci (Cam), Courtney (Clay) and Tanner (Sydney) She was a proud greatgrandmother to Wren, Rory and Fielder Shirley is also survived by brothers-in-law Russell (Shirley) Wallace, Allen (Wendy) Wallace; numerous nieces and nephews and many dear friends whose lives were touched by her kindness and spirit She is predeceased by her parents Albert and Esther Lawrence; her sisters Grace (Fred) Weiss Ruby Currie Joyce Lawrence (John Allison) Pearl (Gary) Springall and infant Elsie; her brothers George (Marion) and Ken Lawrence; and brother-in-law Ray Wallace A devoted homemaker Shirley took great pride in her well-kept home and her elegant style Her greatest joy was her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who lovingly knew her as Gramma and Nanny She was known for her delicious cooking, her talent for sewing and her gentle, nurturing presence Shirley had a deep appreciation for life’s simple pleasures She loved music and reading and found great joy in her garden, especially the flowers she carefully tended on the farm She was a natural hostess who enjoyed entertaining and filling her home with laughter and love She and George also shared a love of travel, exploring the world together and creating a lifetime of memories Her love, laughter, and steady presence will be deeply missed and forever remembered A Celebration of Life will be held in Mankota SK at a later date Details to follow Memorial donations in Shirley s memory may be given to the Mankota and District Auxiliary for the Prairie View Health Centre Box 390 Mankota SK S0H 2W0 Online condolences can be shared at www pichehawkinsgrondinfuneralchapels ca
Senior Living Condo for Rent Points West Retirement Centre – Moose Jaw Friendly, Warm, Home-like atmosphere Self contained kitchen, 2 bedrooms Balcony Garage Corner unit view in 3 directions Washer and Dryer 306-631-1669
AGPRO SEEDS - BUYING HEATED CANOLA, FEED BARLEY & FEED GRAIN #1 buyer on the prairies top price paid! For Bids Call/Text: 306873-0481 Email: sales@agproseeds com FORAGE SEED FOR SALE: Organic & conventional: Sweet Clover Alfalfa Red Clover Smooth Brome Meadow Brome Crested Wheatgrass Timothy etc Star City SK Birch Rose Acres Ltd 306-921-9942
BARLEY *New - AB StANdSwell* Smooth awn, high yielding, grain and forage great lodging reSiStance 1St NitrogeN uSe efficieNt cereAl iN cANAdA AttrActiNg JApANeSe
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
Aging comes with many changes that affect the body
Aging is an inevitable component of life. Young children often cannot wait until they get older because of the freedoms that seemingly come with being more mature. On the flip side, adults often wish they were young again. Time waits for no person, and with aging comes many changes, many of which manifest physically. The following are some components of healthy aging.
Bones, joints and muscles: With age bones may become thinner and more fragile. Joints will lose their flexibility, while muscles lose mass and strength, endurance and flexibility. These changes may be accompanied by a loss of stability that can result in
balance issues or falls. It’s common for the body frame to shrink, and a person may lose a few inches from his or her height. A doctor may suggest a bone-density test or supplementation with calcium and vitamin D to keep bones as strong as possible. Physical activity that includes strength training can help keep muscles strong and flexible.
Body fat: As muscle mass diminishes, body fat can increase. By age 75, the percentage of body fat typically doubles compared with what it was during young adulthood. The distribution of fat also changes, which can adjust the shape of the torso.
Heart: Organs in the body also age, and cells begin to
die off, making those organs work less efficiently. The heart is one such organ that changes with age. It pumps more than 2.5 million beats during one’s lifetime. As a person gets older, blood vessels lose their elasticity, and the heart has to work harder to circulate blood throughout the body. Exercise can help keep the heart as strong as possible.
Urinary tract and kidneys: The kidneys become smaller as a person ages, which means they may not be able to filter urine as effectively. Urinary incontinence may occur due to hormonal changes or because of an enlarged prostate. Furthermore, the bladder may become less elastic, leading to an urge to urinate more frequently.
Sleep needs change as adults grow older
Adults know much about their health changes as they grow older, but health experts note that sleep requirements generally remain the same throughout adulthood.
Older adults need roughly the same amount of sleep as all adults. The recommended amount of sleep for adults is at least seven hours each day, and various organizations recommend adults get between seven and nine hours of sleep per night. Those recommendations can promote optimal health into one’s golden years, but that advice is not being heeded by a significant portion of the adult population.
A recent study tracked the sleeping habits of men and women between 2013 and 2022 and ultimately found that 37.5 percent of men and 36 percent of women were not getting enough sleep during that time period. The percentage of individuals not getting enough sleep was particularly high among adults between the ages of 39 and 64, among whom nearly four in 10 were falling short of the recommended daily amount of sleep.
Spring It on, TOA updates residents on spring cleaning measures
Sherri Solomko
Freelance Reporter
Time for spring cleaning, sweeping the community with help from Town of Assiniboia. TOA is reminding residents that spring cleaning measures are underway or beginning. Residents can help by cleaning up their properties and neighborhoods.
The TOA will again be offing free landfill tipping for Assiniboia residents only. From May 10-17,
residents can bring their clean up items to the landfill. But first, you must get a free tipping ticket to verify your address, which are now available at the town office.
This week of free tipping only includes residential and commercial waste, excluding contractor and demolition waste.
Tina Dijkstra, Finance/ Administration Coordinator, for the Town of Assiniboia says, “The Free Tipping is
Local residents are encouraged to help keep the Town of Assiniboia clean and beautiful.
an incentive for residents to do a spring clean-up of their yards and get rid of unwanted items. We encourage people to recycle what they can - we have Salvation Army and Sarcan. Both providing a great service for residents with lots of options for recycle that will aid in waste reduction.”
TOA notes that in 2024 during spring tipping, the Assiniboia landfill received 46,900 kg of refuse from Assiniboia residents. Thats a total of $4,690 in tipping fees.
TOA acknowledges saying, “We know that number reflects the pride residents take into keeping their properties tidy.”
Those bringing loads during free tipping week are reminded to ensure their loads are covered and need to present their free tipping ticket to operator before dumping.
Residents are also reminded that compost and branches are accepted year-round for free at the landfill as there is no curbside composite pick up by the town.
Don’t have a way to transport your spring clean up during free tipping week? Seeking a fundraising opportunity for your group or organization? At one time, Communities in Bloom would use the free tipping week as an organization fundraiser. The TOA has been looking for an organization to take this service over TOA is looking for an organization to benefit from Free Landfill Tipping week. What the opportunity involves is having an access to a truck and/or trailer, along with able bodied individuals from your organization. Providing a number for residents to call and or-
ganize items/garbage/yard waste to be picked up from residents and hauled to the dump for a donation to your organization.
The town will help promote your organization through posters, civic news, website and social media. Interested parties can contact the town office at 306-642-5003 or email exec.assistant@assiniboia.net
Did you know that the TOA has compost bin and barrel rebate policy, #835, which offers a way for residents to aid in the reduction of pressure on the Assiniboia Water Treatment Plant and the Assiniboia Landfill.
Dijkstra also adds, “This rebate program offer is available to residents of Assiniboia who: 1.) Have a utility account in good standing, 2.) Purchase a rain barrel and/or compost
bin from a local retailer, 3). Provide proof of installation at their residence. For more information, visit our website at https:// www.assiniboia.net/ town_office/rebate_program_compost_bin_rain_ barrel_.html or stop by the Town Office.”
On behalf of the TOA, Dijkstra reminds residents, “The TOA has Community Standards bylaw 09/20 that give residents some guidelines when it comes to property maintenance. We encourage residents to help out their neighbors if they are able and see a need for it.”
Clean up activity was recognized in community parks as the 20 Freedom Fighter Air Cadet Squadron undertook these actions, performing community service as part of their programming focusing on great citizenship.
Sask. aims to label drugs, needles as street weapons under Safe Public Spaces Act
The Saskatchewan government is taking steps to have fentanyl, hypodermic needles and methamphetamine deemed street weapons.
The Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan introduced House amendments to The Safe Public Spaces (Street Weapons) Act that
Annual General Meeting
will expand the act. According to Saskatchewan Justice, the changes recognize the significant risks these items present to public safety.
The act is expected to be passed during the spring sitting and come into force this summer after regulations have been finalized.
Once in force, the act will enable municipalities and First Nations to opt in to new rules to regulate the possession, transportation and storage of items potentially used as street weapons, such as large knives, machetes, hypodermic needles and bear spray.
The government says it
recognizes that many items used as street weapons have legitimate, legal purposes. The legislation contains appropriate exemptions to ensure these items can continue to be used for their lawful purposes, such as medical treatment, food preparation and protection from wildlife threats.
Annual General Meeting
Annual General Meeting
Monday, May 26, 2025 @ 7:00 p.m.
Annual General Meeting
Annual General Meeting
Virtual meeting to be held on Teams
Monday, May 26, 2025 @ 7:00 p.m.
Monday, May 26, 2025 @ 7:00 p.m.
Monday, May 26, 2025 @ 7:00 p.m.
Virtual meeting to be held on Teams
Virtual meeting to be held on Teams
To register visit www.southlandco-op.crs
Virtual to be held on Teams register visit www.southlandco-op.crs
Virtual meeting to be held on Teams
To register visit www.southlandco-op.crs
To register visit www.southlandco-op.crs
Or call 306-642-3347
Or call 306-642-3347
To register visit www.southlandco-op.crs
Or call 306-642-3347
Or call 306-642-3347
Registration deadline May 22, 2025
Registration deadline May 22, 2025
Registration deadline May 22, 2025
Registration deadline May 22, 2025
AGM Agenda
AGM Agenda
AGM Agenda
AGM Agenda
Minutes from Previous Meeting May 27, 2024 2024 Annual Report
Minutes from Previous Meeting May 27, 2024 2024 Annual Report
Minutes from Previous Meeting May 27, 2024 2024 Annual Report
Minutes from Previous Meeting May 27, 2024 2024 Annual Report
Registration May Agenda 27, 2024 Annual Report throughout meeting**
