Locations in Assiniboia and Gravelbourg Locally Owned and Operated
The SUMA Southwest Regional Meeting was hosted in Assiniboia on June 10. Town Council shared the Centre Street Infrastructure Project and provided tours of the Shurniak Art Gallery. Guest speakers for the day included the Ministry of Community Safety for an important discussion of the Safer Communities and Neighbours Act as well as Sask.Water who sponsored the 2026 Regional Roadshow. Pictured, l-r, President of SUMA Randy Goulden and Mayor Sharon Schauenberg.
Assiniboia and area offer small museums with big stories
Sherri Solomko Freelance Reporter
Visiting a small-town museum offers a highly personalized, uncrowded experience filled with rare local stories and unique artifacts you cannot find anywhere else. These hidden gems provide a deep, authentic look into regional heritage while serving as vibrant hubs for the local community.
Looking for a summer adventure close to home?
The museums scattered throughout the Assiniboia Times readership area are filled with remarkable artifacts, captivating stories and local heritage you won’t find anywhere else. These hidden gems offer visitors an authentic glimpse into the people, places and events that helped shape the region.
Here is an alphabetic list of what museums in Assiniboia and area are offering this summer
Assiniboia and District Museum, in addition to regular displays which include highlights from early 20th century pioneer life, this location serves as the region’s Visitor Infor-
mation Centre.
ADM also includes the highly attractive Farquhar Vintage Car Collection, the unique Prentice African Safari Exhibit, gathered by a local pioneer, inventor and businessman, Wilfred Prentice.
Assiniboia’s Museum grounds are also home to a massive array of antique tractors, threshing machines and farming tools, as well as local photo archives and military memorabilia honoring the region’s veterans. An added summer attraction at the museum is an on-site 9-hole mini golf course.
Assiniboia often hosts pop up events throughout the summer and will announce the activities as they are upcoming through their social media page.
While we did not receive a response from the Bengough Museum, research showed us that this keeper of local history includes pioneer and mining displays that includes a Farmer Coal Mining Park.
Bengough Museum serves as a hub for the annual Gateway Music Festival that takes place in the community each summer.
Gravelbourg Museum is holding a grain elevator restoration fundraising event on June 27. Amanda, spokesperson for the museum told the Assiniboia Times the event will encompass, “Ribbon cutting takes place at 1 p.m. and there will be live music featuring well known artists and local talent. The popular attraction of a
Show ‘n Shine event is also part of the day’s activity.”
This June 27 event at Gravelbourg Museum will also include a beverage gardens, raffles, 50/50, facepainting and other kids’ activities.
The day will wrap up with a street dance featuring The Amigos, and is being hosted by the Rolling Rock Bar.
“Back in the day, there were eight grain elevators at Gravelbourg. This laststanding elevator has been renovated on the outside and our goal is to preserve its history that was a large part of our agriculture community,“ added Amanda, who also notes that they are mulling over the idea of hosting another fundraiser in August.
Mossbank and District Museum said this summer they will be co-hosting the Old Wives Lake Festival, upcoming July 18-19. In addition, they will have their annual Apple Pie Day in August.
Wood Mountain Rodeo Ranch Musuem said they have a plethora of upcoming events. They will be hosting rodeo weekend activities in conjunction with Wood Mountain Stampede. Multiple times through July and August they will be hosting trivia nights.
Payton Todd, spokesperson for the Wood Mountain Rodeo Ranch Museum also told the Assiniboia Times that, while dates are still being confirmed, they are hosting a ticketed event titled “Paint and Plant”. Continued on page 3
Geraldine Ruzicka BC-HIS, Owner
Our Town
Sherri Solomko
Freelance Reporter
Laurie Hawkins, Grade 8 Homeroom Teacher, at Assiniboia Elementary School told the Assiniboia Times, “We did paint rocks with the Prairie Villa residents. We will be placing them on the last week of school. a few other classes are painting in their homeroom to add to the garden.”
The Kindness Garden,
located at SaskCan Centre, began in 2024 under the direction of Hawkins. Community response is proof that students are working together for a better world in this kindness gesture.
In the school’s continued commitment to community engagement, Hawkins adds that the Grade 8A class is heading back to Prairie Villa to play bingo on June 23.
AES students are also enjoying the swimming pool in their recreation classes.
“We have ‘Ridiculous Races’ planned for June 24. There will be a threelegged race, human chain, water balloon, big foot, and inflated Halloween costumes. Students will
sign up for a race and we will head out as a school and cheer them on,” acknowledged Hawkins.
School field trips have been ongoing with Grade 6As going to Kinsmen Centre to swim as well as Infinity Athletics for Ninja Course. Grades 5-6 will be going to the Big
Cheers to summer: Assiniboia Elementary winds down the school year
Muddy tours out of Coronach while Grade 5A is going to tour the mine at Coronach.
Additionally, Grade 4 students from 7th Avenue School will come for their school tour and the Grade 8s will attend ACHS car show and school tour on June 19, as they will mi -
grate, there in the fall. In other news, Grade 7 homeroom teacher, Joanne Feeley will be retiring this year. Mrs. Rasmussen will have an intern in the fall from the University of Regina.
The last day for students before summer break is June 25.
C O M I N G C O M I N G
E V E N T S E V E N T S
Ross Payant Nursing Home
Assiniboia Golf Course
June 2- 2:00 P.M.
Grand Opening of the new front patio.
Ladies Golf Night every Wednesday 5:45 p.m. Everyone Welcome.
Assiniboia Aquatic Centre
June 6
On the Street between POW and Southland Co-op Centre
Pool opens for the season.
Saturday, Sunday, June 20 and 21
Town of Assiniboia
FireFit Regional Championship Starts at 11:00 a.m.
June 6
Community Garage/Yard Sale. Call Denise at 306-640-8800 to register.
St Victor Petroglyphs Interpretative Centre
Saturday, June 27
Pick up your free tickets at the Town of Assiniboia office.
Butterfly release • 2:00 - 3:00 p.m.
Prince of Wales Centre
Assiniboia Museum
Kay Cristo Room
June 14
Saturday, June 27
Heritage Day. petting zoo, old time games, pie and cake contest.
Karaoke Party. 2:00 - 4:00 p.m.
Shurniak Art Gallery
Shurniak Art Gallery
Sunday, June 28
June 28, 1:00 - 7:00 P.M.
Garden party fundraiser • - 1:00 - 7:00 p.m.
Annual Garden Party Fundraiser.
a Precautionary Drinking Water Advisory (PDWA) kicks in. It’s not because something is wrong with the water; it’s simply a safety step required whenever there’s a “localized depressurization” during repairs (as noted by the Water Security Agency).
Get your 2026 Regional Park Stickers HERE! Summer adventures are calling — and your pass is ready! The 2026 Regional Park Stickers are available for $60 at:
Assiniboia Regional Park Golf Course
Your sticker gives you access to all Saskatchewan Regional Parks, but when you purchase locally, your dollars stay right here supporting our own Assiniboia Regional Park — helping keep it vibrant, beautiful, and ready for another great season.
Whether you’re camping, golfing, picnicking, or just soaking up prairie sunshine, grab your pass and get ready for a summer full of local fun.
Let’s make 2026 a year of exploring close to home and supporting the spaces we love.
A PDWA stays in place while the system is flushed, disinfected, and tested — including two sets of water samples taken 24 hours apart to confirm everything is perfectly safe again. That’s why advisories often last a couple of days, even when the repair is quick.
It’s all part of keeping our water system reliable, refreshed, and running strong for everyone. We appreciate your understanding while we update our aging infrastructure with these repairs/replacements.
Assiniboia students painted rocks with the Prairie Villa residents. They will be placing them throughout the community on the last week of school. A few other classes painted in their homeroom to add to the garden.
Photos courtesy of Laurie Hawkins
A stone with a story: Former Rockglen resident gifts landmark viewpoint
Sherri Solomko | Freelance Reporter
A windswept hill overlooking Rockglen has gained a striking new landmark — a massive boat-shaped stone with a remarkable history and a message of reflection for all who visit.
Perched high above the town, the newly established viewpoint offers panoramic views stretching for miles across the prairie landscape. At its centre sits the Choquer Stone, a 10-foot-long, four-foot-high rock that journeyed all the way from British Columbia to southern Saskatchewan.
Moving the stone was no small task. A large payloader operated by Rockglen Choquer family members was used to place the stone.
“It lifted the back wheels right off the ground” recalled Choquer.
While the exact weight of the stone is unknown, its sheer size and density left no doubt that it was an extraordinary undertaking.
The stone was donated by Choquer’s cousin, Jacques Choquer, a former Rockglen resident who later moved to British Columbia, where he built a successful marina and welding business. Now 97 years old, although his family ascertains he looks and acts like a 70-yearold, Jacques wanted to give something meaning-
ful back to the community that welcomed him when he first arrived in Canada.
“My elderly cousin started his Canadian life in Rockglen,” said Al. “He made his fortune in B.C. and wanted to contribute something back to the town.”
The stone was placed on the hill overlooking Rockglen on October 18, 2025, by members of the Choquer family.
A Connection to
Ancient History
What makes the Choquer Stone especially unique is the story behind it.
According to the family, the stone is considered a sister stone to the famed Kathisma Stone in Palestine. Tradition holds that the Kathisma Stone marks the spot where Mary rested while travelling from Jerusalem to Bethlehem before the birth of Jesus.
“The Kathisma Stone is believed to be a resting place for Mother Mary when she travelled pregnant with Jesus,” explained Choquer. “It remains a destination for people of all religions.”
The word Kathisma comes from Greek and means “seat” or “chair.”
A church was built around the original stone around A.D. 456 and later became a mosque after the Muslim conquest of Palestine in the seventh century. Though the church no longer stands, the stone itself remains a place of
Small museums have a lot to offer this summer
Continued from front page
Patrons will have an opportunity to paint a pot and plant a flower to take home and more information will be available on their social media once details are finalized.
This southern Saskatchewan museum is rich in
pilgrimage, prayer and contemplation.
Inspired by that tradition, the Choquer family hopes the Rockglen stone will serve a similar purpose.
From the Sunshine Coast to the Prairies
The stone was discovered on British Columbia’s Sunshine Coast by Jacques Choquer, who immigrated from France and first settled in the Rockglen area. After marrying local resident Donnie Knutsen and starting a family, Jacques moved west in 1963 and established his business in Sechelt.
Despite building a life in British Columbia, he never forgot the commun-
ity where his Canadian journey began.
Family members say the stone was chosen and shipped to Saskatchewan as a gesture of gratitude to Rockglen and its residents.
A Place to Pause
On June 14, 2026, a special blessing ceremony was held at the site. Fr. Anthony Phung Tran, the Catholic priest serving the area, blessed the stone and the
surrounding ground.
Although Jacques was unable to attend due to his age, community members gathered to mark the occasion.
“My cousin and I hope this site becomes a place where people can visit, rest awhile, pray, contemplate life and enjoy the serenity of the surroundings,” said Choquer. “I’m hoping it becomes another interest-
ing attraction that encourages tourism in the area.”
Located on the hill south of Rockglen near the telephone tower, the Choquer Stone now stands as both a scenic destination and a symbol of gratitude, faith and community connection.
Visitors will find a plaque beside the stone inviting them to do exactly what its donor envisioned.
OFFERS
HAY CUTTING AND REMOVAL
history as they continue to celebrate Canada’s oldest continuous rodeo, established in 1890. The location also encompasses rodeo history and artifacts from the past 136 years, along with historical pioneer buildings, and the Chief Sitting Bull Monument.
LA FÊTE DU CANADA
at the / aux
Le Musée de Willow Bunch
✓ 9:00 - 4:00 - Open House / Portes Ouvertes
✓ 11:00 - 1:00 - BBQ / Barbecue
✓ Door Prizes / Prix de présence
✓ Bouncy Castle / Château gonflable
✓ Face Painting / Peinture sur le visage
Sealed offers will be received at the office of the undersigned until 2 p.m. CST, June 29, 2026, for the cutting and removal of grass and alfalfa from the following parcels.
All acres are approximate:
a. 160 acres in NE 31-3-26 W2
b. 160 acres in SE 31-3-26 W2
c. 160 acres in SW 31-3-26 W2
d. 160 acres in SW 30-3-26 W2
e. 160 acres in NW 25-3-27 W2
f. 320 acres in E ½ 30-3-26 W2
g. 160 acres in NW 30-3-26 W2
Conditions:
✓ Firemen’s Demo with games, crafts / Démonstration des pompiers avec jeux et activités manuelles
✓ Scavenger Hunts for all ages / Chasse au trésor pour tous les âges!
✓ 1:00 Pow Wow Dancers in Full Regalia! Danseurs de Pow Wow en tenue complète !
Thank you to our sponsors! / Merci à nos sponso rs !
h. 16 acres in NE
1. Offers are to be placed on an INDIVIDUAL PARCEL BASIS and are to include the Goods and Services Tax.
2. Terms are to be cash upon notification of successful bidder.
3. Offers should be mailed to the undersigned in a sealed envelope on which should be written, “HAYCUTTING OFFERS” and the location it pertains to. NO FAXES
4. The work must be completed, and bales moved by September 30, 2026. Bales not removed by September 30, 2026 will become the property of SaskPower.
The successful bidder will be required to enter into a hay cutting permit. The highest or any offer received will not necessarily be accepted.
Lee Williams SaskPower Land Department 9NE, 2025 Victoria Avenue Regina, SK S4P 0S1
Father Anthony Phung Tran, the Catholic priest serving the area, blessed the stone and the surrounding ground during a special ceremony on June 14.
Photo courtesy of Lorie-Gay Drewitz Gallaway
Making our way back home
By Trudy and Dale Buxton, Publishers of The Independent
Welcome to Creston, British Columbia!
We have had a great trip in the U.S.A., and we have seen a number of things that we can take off the bucket list, but now it’s time to make our way home.
Creston is snuggled between the Selkirk and Purcell mountains. It first became a village in the year 1898 with the building of the railroad, originally the community was known as the Seventh Siding, but officially changed its name to Creston in 1899 when a settler named Fred Little refused to deed his land unless the railroad named the community Creston.
For Mr. Little the name Creston was his hometown in Iowa, and it was special. The Canadian Pacific Railway agreed with the name, and it stuck. The First Nations peoples used to call this area “Kunama,” which means “Where the rock stands.”
Creston is a fabulous town with all things for a great tourist town. There is a wide variety of eating establishments and lots of great recreational activities both summer and winter. It is home to the award-winning Kokanee Beer, brewed on its shores and marketed for its famous glacier bear mascot.
Home to a real-life bank robbery in 1925 that started in as a standard hold up at the Imperial Bank with two men entered the bank and demanded cash, the bank manager, who was a First World War veteran, grabbed a gun and started shooting. After several shots were exchanged the manager ran out of bullets, put down his gun and calmly walked to the vault and handed the two men about $10,000. It was amazing that nobody was hit from a stray bullet.
The two robbers left the building with cash in hand and were chased by a local hunter and again shots were fired but no-
body was hit. The two robbers vanished into the orchards and were never seen again. This robbery continues to be talked about in local walking tours from the history of the town.
Creston is also known for producing the largest cherries in the Northern Hemisphere. The skyline is defined by two large grain elevators that were built in the mid1930’s and preserved as regional landmarks.
After a great stay in Creston, it’s time to make our way onto our next destination.
We head west on Highway 3 and ride into the community of Salmo.
Originally known as Salmon City in the mid 1800’s the name changed to Salmo in 1896. It’s unclear why the name had changed.
Salmo has a population of around 1,200 people; the community is known as the “Hub of the Kootenays” which has a unique history surrounded by the gold rush of the early 1900’s. It is noted for a few oddities like a giant eight-foot Canadian penny which stands along the highway.
Salmo is also recognized for having the world’s oldest phone booth, which doesn’t work but stands as a local landmark. This phone booth was carved from a 400-plus year-old cedar tree.
If you are interested in electronic type of music, Salmo is the home of the Shambhala Music Festival, a multi-day event that attracts thousands of people to hear world class DJ’s strut their stuff. This festival has been called the top music festival in North America.
It’s amazing what you come upon when you don’t expect it.
Stay tuned next week as we continue our trip in B.C. and ride home.
The Government of Saskatchewan is recognizing June 14 to 20 as Native Prairie Appreciation Week, highlighting the beauty, biodiversity and cultural significance of our native prairie ecosystems. These native rangelands provide significant benefits, including habitat for wildlife, forage for livestock, carbon storage, nutrient cycling and water filtration and retention.
“The Government of Saskatchewan is focused on increasing awareness and appreciation of native prairie, promoting responsible land use and strengthening the management of these vital ecosystems,” said Environment Minister Darlene Rowden. “2026 is the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists, which highlights the vital role ranchers play as stewards of our prairie landscape.”
The International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists (IYRP) 2026 aims to raise awareness of the global importance of rangelands and their significant economic, environmental and social value. Rangelands support the livelihoods and socio-ecological resilience of hundreds of millions of people, play a key role in conserving bio-cultural diversity, help restore degraded lands and contribute to sustainable food systems and global climate action. The initiative also recognizes pastoralists as frontline custodians of these landscapes.
“Native prairie is an important part of Saskatchewan’s agriculture industry,” said Agriculture Minister David Marit. “As we mark Native Prairie Appreciation Week, I want to thank the producers who continue to steward these lands, ensuring they remain productive and healthy for generations to come.”
“Native Prairie Appreciation Week is one of our favourite ways to engage people from diverse backgrounds about the value of native prairie and foster their appreciation for this beautiful ecosystem,” said Saskatchewan Prairie Conservation Action Plan Manager Carolyn Gaudet. “Native Prairie Appreciation Week lines up well with the goals of the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists as we want to celebrate grasslands and grassland stewards. Conserving prairie landscapes starts with understanding them, everyone can learn about the many benefits and biodiversity that grasslands provide and the people who care for them.”
Native Prairie Appreciation Week includes a tour on June 12-13 at Saskatchewan Landing Provincial Park and the Monet Community Pasture south of Elrose, as well as the Nature Saskatchewan Spring Meet in Swift Current June 19-20.
To learn more about these events or Native Prairie Appreciation Week, visit pcap-sk.org or email SK PCAP at pcap@sasktel.net.
The ‘Welcome to Creston’ sign located outside the community.
Prairie South division announces Superintendent of School Operations
Prairie South Schools
announced the appointment of Darby Murphy as Superintendent of School Operations beginning August 3, 2026.
Darby brings a strong record of K-12 leadership, extensive rural school experience, and a deep com-
mitment to collaborative, student-centred education.
Darby currently serves as Principal of St. Martin’s School in Vegreville, Alberta, a PreK-Grade 6 school, where he leads school operations with a focus on assurance planning, instructional leader-
ship, student well-being, staff development, and community engagement. Prior to his current role, Darby served as Assistant Principal at St. Mary’s School, a Grade 7-12 school in Vegreville.
Darby holds a Master of Education in Educational
Studies from the University of Alberta, where he focused on school leadership and improvement. He also completed the EXCEL Leadership Program through Newman College and earned his Bachelor of Education with Distinction from the University of Alberta. His academic preparation reflects his commitment to continuous learning and strong leadership. In addition to his formal education, Darby has completed all competencies within Alberta’s Leadership Quality Standards.
Darby brings a thoughtful, student-focused approach to leadership and a strong understanding of both rural and urban school settings. His experience, integrity, and commitment to collaborative school improvement make him an excellent addition to our senior leadership team.
Darby and his family are excited to return home to Saskatchewan, the province in which he was raised, and look forward to embracing the Prairie South School Division community as their own. Darby Murphy, Superintendent of School Operations
SHURNIAK ART GALLERY
Married October 18, 2025 • Assiniboia, Sask.
Cayer
Assiniboia
Gravelbourg
Coronach
Lafleche
Essential elements for planning a successful wedding
Just got engaged and ready to start planning your big day? Organizing a wedding is exciting, but it also requires you to make a lot of decisions.
Here are five key things to keep in mind.
Set a budget
Start by deciding how much you’re willing to spend on the event. You don’t need an exact figure right away, but you should try to estimate costs for essentials like the venue, cake, dresses and suits.
Choose an officiant
Depending on whether you want a civil or religious ceremony, you’ll have to hire someone who is legally authorized to declare you married. This could be a priest, a notary or even a family member who obtains the proper authorization.
Send out invitations
Whether you send your invitations by post or email, get them out as soon as possible. Ideally, you should do this at least four months before the wedding. This will help you confirm the number of place settings, chairs and other arrangements that need to be provided on the big day.
Plan the menu
One of the keys to a successful wedding is undoubtedly serving good food. Take the time to explore your catering options. Some caterers, for example, offer complete buffet menus that include vegetarian or lactose-free dishes. Book an entertainer or musician
Music sets the tone for the celebration. Depending on your budget and preferences, hire a DJ or live band to play appropriate music at the ceremony, cocktail hour and reception. Always ask for references from satisfied customers before booking.
Planning a wedding involves many details, but careful preparation will ensure nothing gets overlooked as you create a magical moment that reflects who you are. Hire a specialized company in your area.
Coffee Row Conversations: FireFit fever, storm talk, making summer plans
Sherri Solomko Freelance Reporter
Lots was making news on Coffee Row in the last two weeks.
If conversations around town are any indication, FireFit fever has arrived.
The upcoming FireFit Competition is generating plenty of excitement as residents prepare to welcome competitors and spectators for the first event of its kind in the community. Many are especially eager to cheer on members of Assiniboia Fire Rescue who will be putting their skills to the test.
Weather has also been a hot topic. While recent rainfall was welcomed across the often-parched southern Saskatchewan prairie, some intense storm activity left residents feeling a little uneasy. Rainfall
amounts varied significantly throughout the area, with many sharing rain gauge totals on social media.
Mayor Sharon Schauenberg posted a photo showing 1.2 inches of rain recorded on June 10. Did the recent storms leave any damage in your area?
Looking ahead, attention is turning to the future of the Assiniboia Airport. An open house was held June 18 to discuss major upgrades planned for the facility, including projects aimed at improving safety, supporting community needs and preparing for future growth.
The Assiniboia Municipal Airport Authority, formed in 2024 through a partnership between the Town of Assiniboia and surrounding rural municipalities, continues to
oversee revitalization efforts. The airport serves as a critical base for Saskatchewan Air Ambulance operations, facilitating lifesaving patient transfers. Supported by provincial funding, the authority has launched several multimillion-dollar infrastructure projects, including taxiway resurfacing, expanded medevac transfer areas and upgraded runway lighting capable of accommodating larger aircraft.
On the recreation front, TOA Wellness and Recreation highlighted the many activities available in Assiniboia on a typical Tuesday evening. Ball diamonds were bustling with minor and senior ball games, Aquafit classes were underway at the pool, indoor ball hockey was in action, youth were playing basketball on
the former Civic Centre slab, soccer matches filled the fields, and cyclists and walkers were making the most of local trails and public spaces.
Graduation season is fast approaching. Assiniboia Composite High School’s Class of 2026 will celebrate at ceremonies June 26 at the Southland Co-op Centre. After a year filled with academic, athletic and extracurricular achievements, the community will have an opportunity to recognize graduates before they head off to new adventures.
In sports news, Scout Lake’s Wade Franks is taking the next step in his hockey career. Following a successful season with the Moose Jaw Winmar Warriors in the SMAAAHL, Franks has signed with
Gravelbourg survey on residential chickens
Sherri Solomko
Freelance Reporter
The Town of Gravelbourg social media post states, “No more clucking around!” Questions about backyard chickens are coming home to roost in Gravelbourg.
the Flin Flon Bombers of the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League.
Local Legion members marked D-Day by placing Canadian flags and poppies at the gravesites of veterans who served in the First and Second World Wars at Mount Hope Cemetery. The meaningful gesture ensured these heroes were remembered and honoured for their courage and sacrifice.
Golf enthusiasts are gearing up for the Assiniboia Golf Club’s annual men’s open on June 20. The event has been renamed the Tim and Greener Golf Classic in memory of two dedicated community members. Meanwhile, the club’s popular Friday wing nights and golf specials continue to draw participants throughout the summer.
a constant topic of discussion. Are producers finished seeding, nearly finished, or facing delays due to recent rains? Are moisture conditions improving, or are dry conditions still a concern? In a region where agriculture is central to the economy, residents continue to closely follow developments in the field.
Summer celebrations are also on the horizon as Canada Day planning ramps up. Readers can find information on upcoming celebrations throughout the region in the Assiniboia Times, while TOA Recreation has released a full schedule of July 1 events, and other summer activities.
Egging on discussion, the town leadership team are enlisting residents to complete a survey so they can know more about what people think about the potential development of a backyard chicken program in their community., with the survey only taking a few minutes to complete. Initial request for council to consider backyard chickens was made by former residents on June 11, 2024. This is included in the regular council meeting minutes for that date. Council meeting minutes online from August of 2025 read, “That council rescind resolution #2024-0256 adding backyard chickens to animal bylaw.”
Assiniboia Times reached out to Ariel Haug, Community and Economic Development Officer for
the Town of Gravelbourg, with her response, “I can direct you to the available public information. My only connection is to disseminate the survey on our communication channels.”
A new animal control bylaw was passed in April of 2026 but did not include chickens. Administration was directed to
create a survey to gauge public interest/demand/ concerns for backyard hens in Gravelbourg. People can learn more about this survey by contacting the town office or perusing the Town of Gravelbourg website in the Council Meeting page, where minutes and agendas are included.
The Southern Rebels are also seeking billet families for the upcoming season. Billets play an important role in supporting the team, which contributes to the local economy through its participation in the Prairie Junior Hockey League.
Agriculture remains
Finally, a topic generating discussion far beyond Coffee Row is the proposed social media ban for youth under 16, currently being debated at both provincial and federal levels. Some believe government intervention is necessary, while others feel the issue should remain a family responsibility. Wherever people stand on the issue, it is certainly a conversation making its way around town.
During the cold season, extreme weather conditions and humidity can be hard on your car, especially the battery. Now is the perfect time to check whether your battery is still holding a proper charge. Not sure how to do it? Use this guide. How to do it
Open the hood of your car to access the battery. In some cars, the battery is in the trunk. Using a digital multimeter, connect the red cable to the positive (+) ter-
minal and the black cable to the negative (-) terminal. This device is available at most auto parts retailers for around $20.
A multimeter reading between 12.4 V and 12.6 V means your battery is in good condition. Keep the multimeter connected to the battery and start the engine. When idling or accelerating slightly (without engaging the clutch), the multimeter should display between 13 V and 15 V,
confirming that the charging circuit is working properly.
Signs to watch for
If you get results outside ideal ranges, you may need to take action. Watch for:
• Less than 12.1 V before starting. This means that the battery is discharged. Use a trickle charger or consult your mechanic.
• Less than 13 V when the engine is running. This could indicate a faulty charging circuit. Have it repaired to prevent a breakdown.
• More than 15 V when the engine is running. This is a sign that the voltage regulator isn’t work ing correctly. Visit your mechanic immediately.
A healthy car battery is the key to a smooth ride. If you start having car trouble, call a local automotive professional.
Many drivers take advantage of the warmer weather to catch up on vehicle maintenance. Summer is an excellent time to get fluids checked, change the tires and give your car a deep cleaning.
Should wheel alignment be on your spring auto-care checklist? Here’s what you need to know.
What’s a wheel alignment?
For your car to handle properly and drive safely, its wheels must sit perpendicular to the road and parallel to each other. Mechanics use specialized equipment to adjust their position and ensure everything lines up correctly.
When is a good time?
According to experts, a wheel alignment is necessary after a car has been in an accident or when major components have
been replaced.
As temperatures alternate between freezing and thawing in the spring and before summer, potholes form on the roads. If you hit one of these bumps at regular speed, the strong impact could knock your wheels out of alignment.
Wheel alignment isn’t required in the summer, but this season often increases the risk of damage. Be aware of these signs of poor wheel alignment:
• Your vehicle pulls to the right or left when the steering wheel is straight.
• Your steering wheel sits off-centre when you drive in a straight line.
• Your tires show uneven wear.
If you notice any of these signs, make an appointment at your local repair shop as soon as possible.
Getaway for the summer: Ideas to break up long road trips
Slow to 60: watch speed limits while in work hazard zones
Sherri Solomko Freelance Reporter
June safety spotlight, issued by SGI in a media release, reminds drivers to be alert and share the road safely, to help protect emergency responders and service vehicle operators. Slow to 60 when you see flashing lights.
Drivers must slow to 60 km/h when passing emergency and service vehicles that are stopped with their lights flashing.
The SGI release, acknowledges, “Many near misses and close calls have put emergency responders’ lives at risk or left them injured. In 2024, there were 124 collisions involving ambulance, police or fire vehicles that caused 22 injuries and one fatality. These are preventable when drivers are alert, slow their speed and share the road.”
and Driver Programs at SGI. “Everybody wants to go home from work at the end of the day. Drivers can help keep emergency responders, stranded drivers and bystanders safe by slowing down and moving over.”
Drivers can face fines for exceeding the 60 km/h speed limit when passing police, ambulances, fire trucks, tow trucks or service vehicles if they’re parked at the side of the road with their lights flashing. The base fine is $170 with additional fines per kilometre over the posted speed limit. For example, if a driver is travelling 100 km/h when passing an emergency or service vehicle, the fine would be $570. The vehicle is 40 km/h over the 60 km/h limit.
Few getaways can feel as liberating as taking to the open road. Road trips have long held a spot in travel lovers’ hearts, and many a book and film have helped to romanticize the idea of getting behind the wheel and heading off for parts unknown.
As scenic as the open road can be, it’s easy to get a little antsy when taking long trips in a car. Having some built-in breaks to get out of the car and even enjoy a little entertainment along the way can help to make road trips more enjoyable.
Take in a ballgame.
When traveling in summertime, a midtrip stop to a minor league ballpark can provide a relaxing respite from the road. A summer afternoon or evening taking in America’s pastime provides an affordable and family-friendly activity. Some in-game strolls around the ballpark offer a chance for travelers to stretch their legs before returning to their seats to enjoy some refreshments and the action on the field.
Many minor league stadiums are located in cities with affordable lodging options, making this an ideal overnight pitstop option in the midst of a long trip.
Visit a historical site
There’s not only adventure on the open road, but lots of history as well. History buffs can find a wealth of historical sites to visit regardless of which direction they’re heading. Many historical sites offer in -
formative and kid-friendly tours, making a mid-trip visit to a historical site a great way to break up a long road trip.
Take to the water
Whether you devote a day to visiting a beach or water park along the way to your ultimate destination, some water-based fun can be just what weary travelers need to recharge their batteries. A beach day or a day at a water park might be especially fun for travelers who hit the road before the sun came up. Simply drive until lunchtime and then take to the water for some wellearned fun and relaxation.
Get out in nature
The natural beauty travelers encounter along a scenic road trip need not be viewed exclusively through a car window or windshield. A break devoted to spending time in nature can revive travelers’ spirits and get them some much-needed time in the fresh air. When planning a trip, travelers can identify hiking trails or other natural attractions they can experience firsthand. A roadside campground can be an ideal place to make some great memories, while an adventure in nature like kayaking, canoeing or a simple hike can make for a great way for travelers to fully immerse themselves in the regions they’re driving through.
There’s no shortage of options for travelers to get out of the car and enjoy a little entertainment when taking long road trips.
“Whether it’s a collision, medical crisis, flat tire, or any other reason a driver is stranded or injured, these are the helpers coming to their rescue,” said Karol Noe,
Executive Vice President, Vehicle
Behind every flashing light is a person with a family. Taking a few seconds to switch lanes or reduce speed is a small act that shows responsibility and respect for those at work, risking their safety to help others. Treat them like your family because they’re somebody’s.
Home runs and hometown pride: Dunning League brings entertainment
Sherri Solomko,
Freelance Reporter
In the six-team senior men’s Dunning Baseball League, the biggest question these days may be whether fans are talking more about the highscoring games or the wet weather that continues to
disrupt the schedule. Both Assiniboia teams sit atop the standings. The Aces remain undefeated, while the Brew Crew have suffered just one loss.
Assiniboia Brew Crew edged Glentworth in a onerun thriller on June 2. Rain cut short the team’s June 4
matchup against Lafleche after only two-and-a-half innings. The Crew returned to form June 9 with a convincing 13-3 victory over Coronach.
For the Aces, June 4 brought an unusual win, as the game was recorded as a forfeit after the Nation -
als cancelled. Scores for the Aces’ June 9 and June 11 contests were not available at press time, and no updates had been posted on the team’s social media channels.
The Glentworth Giants have made a habit of keeping fans on the edge of their seats. After falling by a single run to the Brew Crew on June 2, the Giants bounced back with a onerun victory over Rockglen on June 4. Results from their June 9 and June 11 games were unavailable at press time.
The Rockglen Rats have shown they can put runs on the board. The Rats scored 14 runs against the Aces on June 2, but it still wasn’t enough to secure the win. They followed that up
with another close contest, dropping an 8-run effort in a one-run loss to Glentworth on June 4. Rockglen suffered a lopsided defeat to Coronach on June 9, while June 11 results were unavailable. Fans can follow the team’s Facebook page for updates.
The Coronach Nationals find themselves in a rough stretch, according to league standings, having lost three consecutive games.
Meanwhile, the Lafleche Merchants opened June with a victory over Coronach. Their June 4 game against the Aces was interrupted by weather, and complete results could not be found through league or team sources. The Merchants rebounded with a decisive win over Rockglen on June 9.
Only five regular-season games remain on the league schedule for June, although several rainout makeups are expected to be added. The six clubs are scheduled to complete the regular season on July 2, before playoff action begins.
For more than 100 years, the Dunning League has provided southern Saskatchewan communities with affordable summer entertainment and plenty of hometown pride.
Beyond the scores and standings, local baseball remains a gathering place for friends, families and neighbours. On warm summer evenings, there are few better ways to spend time than cheering on your favourite hometown team under the prairie sky.
Rocket Report: SCDAA awards won
By Gillian Couttie
In sports news, congratulations to all of the South Central District Athletic Association award recipients!
A special congratulations goes to our Assiniboia coaches; Brian Ruthven earning the District Service Award, Sue Berner earning the District Service Award as well, and Darcey Huyghebaert earning the Official’s Award.
In addition to our
SCDAA award recipients, we have a few coaches/ officials that have hit certain milestones in years of service to ACHS and our South Central District.
These individuals are: Josh Nesvold (five years), Curtis Lucas (five years), Josh Benham (five years), and Brent Chadwick (30 years).
Thank you to all of our coaches and officials who contribute to school sport in Rocket Nation! We are so very grateful for the time and effort all of our school staff and community members who have put into the sports they love. Stick around for more Rocket news next week!
Darcey Huyghebaert, left, earned the South Central District Athletic Association officials award, presented by Joanne Feeley.
Lifestyle & Wellness
Couples should prepare for transition to retirement
Are you and your partner approaching the longawaited moment of retirement? This major life change calls for careful planning so you can avoid misunderstandings and disappointment. Here’s an overview of the best steps to take now to ensure a smooth transition for both of you.
Reflection
Have you or your partner been experiencing any frustrations or imbalances that have placed a strain on your relationship in recent years? Now’s the time to address them. Take a moment to reflect on your own to identify bad habits you can improve before retirement. If your relationship is struggling, you might consider going together for counselling.
Discussion
An essential step in good planning is to sit down with your significant other and have a frank conversation about what each of you expects from retirement. Do you want to stay active, getting up at dawn to go jogging, or would you rather sleep in? Would you like to have a part-time job or do volunteer work to keep busy? Are you hoping to travel? Gaining clarity about these matters can help you avoid unpleasant surprises.
Planning
Retirement involves significant financial changes, especially in your sources of income. To stay on track and avoid regrets, start planning as early as possible. Whether you hope to achieve certain goals or simply want
to maintain your desired standard of living, meet with a professional like a financial advisor for guidance on creating a realistic budget and savings strategy.
Start the conversation about retirement today so you and your partner can enjoy a smooth, rewarding and fulfilling retirement together.
Ruby Graves Ruby Graves, formerly of Lafleche, Saskatchewan, passed away on June 7, 2026 at the Cypress Regional Hospital, Swift Current, Saskatchewan. Ruby was born in Kincaid, Saskatchewan, on May 19, 1937. She grew up on the family farm south of McCord, Saskatchewan, attending Patriotic School. She married Art Graves on September 2, 1955. They lived in Moose Jaw, McCord, and Gravelbourg for short periods, but the majority of their lives together were lived in Lafleche. Ruby was a wife and mother and worked at the local Co-op for a number of years. She did custom sewing and spent many happy hours doing her favorite hobbies quilting, sewing, knitting, crocheting and tatting. She was predeceased by her parents Mildred (Yingst) and Bernace Uteck, as well as her husband of 62 years, Art. She is survived by her children: Laurel (Jim Sokolowski) of East Selkirk, Manitoba; Rose (Gordon) Lawrence of Neville, Saskatchewan; Allen Graves of Swift Current, Saskatchewan; and Caroline Graves of Regina, Saskatchewan. She was also survived by her brothers: Donald (Paula Deceased) Uteck of Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, and Dale (Sharon) Uteck of Neville, Saskatchewan. Ruby was the Grandmother of 9, GreatGrandmother of 23, and Great-Great-Grandmother of 6. A graveside service will be held on June 15, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at the Lafleche Municipal Cemetery with Reverend Janelle Shaw officiating. Following the service, the family invites you to join them at Club 50 in La Fleche for a time of fellowship. Arrangements entrusted to Warren’s Funeral Home. For further information please call 1-306773-8831 or 1-800-267-6606, or visit the website www. warrensfuneralhome.com and express your sympathy to family members on the tribute wall.
Lorraine Lethbridge
October 28th, 1942June 4th, 2026
Lorraine Lethbridge passed away peacefully on Thursday, June 4th, 2026 surrounded and supported by her family and friends. She was predeceased by her parents, Peter and Nancy Lethbridge; infant brother, Richard Lethbridge; and half-brother, Leonard. Lorraine is survived by her sisters, Loretta and Virginia; brother, Douglas; as well as many nieces and nephews. Lorraine was born on October 28th, 1942 in Whitecap First Nation but grew up in Wood Mountain, SK where she attended grade school. She worked in secretarial and office environments up until her retirement. Lorraine was an avid gardener and loved all types of flowers. Her one passion was animals, and she loved every type of animal, especially cats. Her cats were Wellington, Patches, and Midnight. She also loved curling. Lorraine was a very strong, independent woman, doing life on her own terms, but she had the biggest heart for her family and was always putting other people first. She will be greatly missed and lovingly remembered by all who loved her. The family would like to extend a heartfelt thankyou to all of the nursing staff and workers at Providence Place for taking such good are of her during her final days. A Celebration of Lorraine’s Life was held on Saturday, June 13th, 2026 at 1:30 p.m. at Wood Mountain Lakota First Nation Community Centre. Interment will follow. As an expression of sympathy, donations in Lorraine’s name may be made to the Moose Jaw Wildlife Federation, 1396 3rd Ave NE, Moose Jaw, SK S6H 6H9 or The Moose Jaw Humane Society, Box 1658 Station Main, Moose Jaw, SK S6H 7K7. Arrangements are entrusted to Moose Jaw Funeral Home, 268 Mulberry Lane. Gary McDowell, Funeral Director 306693-4550 www.moosejawfuneralhome.com.
Heather Maffenbeier
Heather Jeanie Maffenbeier (nee Currie) passed away June 2nd, 2026, at Cypress Regional Hospital, Swift Current, Saskatchewan. She was 79 years of age. Heather was born in Assiniboia, Saskatchewan on August 17, 1946, to James and Margaret (Coghill) Currie. Heather moved to Assiniboia where she worked at the local grocery store. Heather married Clarence in 1969 and they had two sons Bret in 1970 and Grant in 1974. Heather loved having her home filled with kids, whether her children’s friends, neighborhood kids or later grandchildren and great grandchildren. Heather babysat while her boys were young and built lifelong relationships with both the kids and their parents. Heather always had a pot of coffee and a plate of treats waiting for whoever was walking in the door. Heather is predeceased by her husband Clarence, her father James, mother Margaret, and sister Sandra. She is survived by her son Bret (Niki) Maffenbeier, son Grant (Laura Leah) Maffenbeier, granddaughter Kaylee (Kevin) Reetz, granddaughter Brooke Maffenbeier (dog Shadow), grandson Garrett Maffenbeier, and great grandchildren Kirsten and Kaiden Reetz, sister Charlene, sister Bonnie, sister Margaret Ann and brother Denis as well as many nieces and nephews. A Celebration of Life was held on Friday, June 12, 2026, at 1:00 pm at St. George Parish Hall, Assiniboia, SK. Urn Bearers Bret and Grant. Tribute by nieces, Carla and Shannon. Interment in Mount Hope Cemetery, Assiniboia, SK followed by fellowship at St. George’s Parish Hall. Donations in memory of Heather may be made to STARS. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy for Heather’s family may be shared at www. rossfuneralservice.com. Arrangements entrusted to Ross Funeral Service, Assiniboia, SK.
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Entries open for annual ExploreSask contest
Tourism Saskatchewan’s annual ExploreSask Photo Contest is officially underway and is accepting entries as of June 15. Enter photographs or videos of Saskatchewan adventures for a chance to win great prizes.
The six contest categories are: People and Places, Prairie scenes, Wildlife, Winter scenes, Woods and Water, and Video.
The prize for the Video category is a $1,000 Visa gift card. The winner in the Video category will not be considered in the selection of the grand prize.
For complete contest rules, category descriptions and to submit your entry, visit TourismSaskatchewan.com.
The deadline for entries is September 15, 2026.
The prize-winning photographer in each category will receive a $500 Visa gift card. The grand prize winner, selected from the five photography category winners, will receive an additional $500 Visa gift card.
Obituaries
Obituaries
Science and Heritage fair successes reported from Mossbank School
Sherri Solomko
Freelance Reporter
Principal Katie Letnes shared the Mossbank School’s pride in recent Science Fair success stories.
Addison Costley was chosen to attend the Provincial Heritage Fair on June 3 at Government House in Regina.
Her project won the Multimedia Award and she placed top eight out of 59 students in the province with her project, “From Log Cabins to Modern Homes”. As part of her project, Addison built models of a log cabin as well as a modern home, with working electricity.
Addison met Lieut. Governor, Bernadette McIntrye, even getting her photo taken with her.
The Local Heritage Fair was held March 31 in Mossbank. The top seven projects included: Grey Owl –Parker McCrea Life in Canada –Addison Costley The Life of Daniel Fredrick Quark – Lucy Quark I Love Golf – Presley Sahl Saskatoons – Emily Petersen Family History of Mossbank South Country Equipment – Zoey Sullivan Clifton Hill – Avery Costley Judges for the event were Mossbank Mayor, Greg Foreman, Joan Bumphrey retired teach and museum chairperson, and Anita
Clarke retired teacher.
These students moved on to the Regional Heritage Fair at the Western Development Museum on May 20. From that event, Addison Costley was selected to advance to the Provincial Heritage Fair as well as was asked to submit her project to the National online showcase.
The Regional Heritage Fair provides students with a platform to creatively research and present Canadian History Diverse Student Projects: Students showcase intricate display boards, models, digital media, and performances focusing on subjects like family history, Indigenous heritage, local sports, and Canadian innovations.
Students present their
Assiniboia RCMP weekly crime stats
The Assiniboia RCMP responded to 26 calls of service during the week of June 8 to 15.
These included:
- 911 Act - 1
- Abandoned Vehicles - 1
- Assist General Public - 1
- Break and Enter - Business - 1
- Drive without Due Care and Attention - 1
- Fail to Attend Court - 1
- Fail to Comply - 1
- False Alarms - 1
- Mental Health Act - 3
- Offender Management - 2
- Operation while Impaired - 1
- Sexual Assault - 1
- Suspicious Person/ Property/Vehicle - 1
- Taking Motor Vehicle w/o Consent - 1
- Traffic - 4
• Erratic Driver (1)
• Speeding (3)
- Traffic Collision –Property Damage - 1
- Uttering Threats - 2
June 1 to 7.
These included:
- Assist General Public - 1
- Break and EnterResidence - 1
- False Alarms - 4
- Fraud Over $5,000 - 1
- Information File - 1
- Mental Health Act - 2
- Suspicious Person/ Property/Vehicle - 4
- Theft of Electricity/ Gas Under $5,000 - 1
- Theft Under $5,000 - 1
- Traffic - 11
projects to judges who evaluate them on historical thinking, factual accuracy, and presentation skills. Top projects advance to the Provincial Heritage Fair.
Heritage Saskatchewan provided awards across
multiple categories, and included students from Mossbank School.
Arts and Leisure Award: Presley Sahl, I Love Golf
Historical Thinking Award: Addison Costley, From Log Cabins to
Homes Moose Jaw committee local award winners included Mossbank student, Lucy Quark for her project on family history; Family History: Lucy Quark, The Life of Daniel F. Quark.
Lieut. Governor Bernadette McIntrye, left, presented the multimedia award to
