Assiniboia
COOLIDGE HEARINGCARE
Muriel Fehr
Freelance Reporter
Saskatchewan Safety Council in partnership with Safe and Healthy Communities held another Cade Sprackman Day, this time in another community.
It is most unfortunate that this year two photos with the dates of the loss of life due to workplace incidents gave students the reason for Wednesday’s “Amazing Safety Quest.”
A town not far from Cade Sprackman’s parents has another family mourning the loss of their loved one from 2017.
The Safe and Healthy Communities group is working hard to ensure the youth of Assiniboia and the surrounding districts as well as all age groups become aware of the possibilities of hazards along with the forethought to anticipate and avoid becoming statistics.
Cade Sprackman Safe -
ty Day came to Mossbank on May 28. Cade Sprackman grew up in Hudson Bay, SK with his sister, two brothers and loving parents.
On January 27th, 2015, after recently graduating high school and moving to Saskatoon for a job, Cade was involved in a preventable workplace incident that took his life. He was only 18.
The Cade Sprackman Safety Day sees community representatives guide students through an Amazing Safety Quest. This three-hour event focused on the development of early safety skills relevant to Saskatchewan workplaces and environments.
Mossbank Grade 9-12 students will complete Saskatchewan Safety Council - Career Safety Education - a series of free online workplace safety programs that help establish a foundation of knowledge for
any new worker by increasing participants’ awareness of hazards and providing baseline understanding of how to manage risks present in a broad variety of industries. For details visit https://www.sasksafety.org/career-safety-education.html.
Involved in the day’s
activities were Brad Young - 3M; Steve Spock - Saskatchewan Construction Safety Association; Cam Hutchinson - Hutch Ambulance; Vipin Chhabra and Jiju Joy - WorkSafe Saskatchewan.
Weyerhauser in Hudson Bay are proud Champion-level sponsors of
the Saskatchewan Safety Council supporting efforts to expand this initiative throughout the province of Saskatchewan. If interested in donating to support similar events, please contact Saskatchewan Safety Council at www. sasksafety.org.
Safe and Healthy Com-
Safe and Healthy Communities hosts Cade Sprackman Day in Mossbank
munities, a charitable organization sponsored this event along with lunch for all participants. Their Mission “Striving to make Assiniboia and areas the safest places to live, learn, work and play.” For more details please visit www.safehealthycommunities.com.
Continued on page 2
Stephen Spock, advisor SCSA, speaks to students at an Ear and Eye Protection quest station, during the Cade Sprackman Day in Mossbank.
Photo courtesy Muriel Fehr
Cade Sprackman Day hosted
Continued from front page
The morning started off with Brett Tiffen, Mossbank School Principal, introducing the event followed by Barb Compton, facilitator with Safe and Healthy Communities giving an introductory talk in conjunction with Renee Clermont, president of Safe and Healthy Communities.
Once the students were split into small groups and given their passports, they were sent to the first of four stations which they rotated around until they had finished their quest and answered questions. The stops in the quest included Ear and Eye Protection, AED and First Aid, PPE
and Fall Protection and finallyHazard Assessment.
The demonstration for protecting one’s eyes included a nail gun shooting into an enclosed space towards a pair of safety glasses at 200 f/s. AED and First Aid shared a demonstration of the defibrillator. Protective Equipment showed the students how to wear a harness followed by suspending each one just up off the floor.
Assessing hazardous situations showed a powerpoint presentation with a spinning wheel where each student answered their spin response. The safety quest ended with draws for prizes and a pizza lunch.
For senior baseball teams in Assiniboia, it’s a family affair
Freelance Reporter
Looking at the rosters for the Dunning Baseball league which includes two senior men’s teams from Assiniboia, it is fascinating to note that both the Assiniboia Aces and the Assiniboia Brewcrew includes multiple family members on the same team.
The Aces, who are reigning league champions and currently sit atop of the league standings have two surnames that take up five spots on
their roster.
Curtis, Owen and Ron Lucas are a father-sons trio that are part of the Aces baseball team.
Owen, is the youngest son of Ron and currently serves as the league webmaster. He tells the Assiniboia Times about playing with his family, “It is pretty sweet to be playing with your dad and feels pretty good to play with a brother too.”
Most kids grow up playing baseball with their dads either in the stands cheer-
ing or serving as a bench boss for the team. Siblings on the same roster isn’t always an option, depending on the age gap and divisions each player is part of. That’s why senior baseball is celebrated for allowing these opportunities for family members.
Matt and Mike Morhart are also party of the family component on the Aces squad.
For the Brewcrew, there is also a dad and two sons on their roster with Will Grondon, Patrick Sr. and
Patrick Jr. filling three spots on the Assiniboia men’s senior roster. A trio of Mcleans, which are three brothers, Braden, Kaden and Landon fill out another three spaces on the Brewcrew roster.
Patrick Jr. told the Assiniboia Times, “this is such a neat experience and my brother and I figured as we got older that we would have an opportunity to play on the same team. I coached him and this has now changed our roles from peer to equal. While
it ‘might’ present challenges at times, overall, this is an awesome experience.”
“Never in my wildest dreams did I expect to be playing with both my dad and my brother, and I will affirm that is pretty special.”
The Assiniboia Aces are looking as strong as they left off in 2024 including five of their players sitting in the top scoring leaders roll call, while Patrick Grondon Jr. of the Brewcree filling out that next spot in the top ten.
Both teams square off in Assiniboia on May 29 and will then move into their remaining regular season games which fill out June. As per the league website, it appears that June 24 is the last regular season game with teams then beginning their playoff quests for the league title. There is always room for fans in the stands. Come out and enjoy the summer weather while cheering on your favourite senior men’s team or player.
Lyle Erfle celebrates 52 years at Great West Auto, plans to keep going
Muriel Fehr Freelance Reporter
In an age when the average person generally changes careers three times in their lives it’s uncommon to find the longevity in working life that we once knew. Lyle Erfle is going into his 52nd year of work and the people at Great West wanted to celebrate that milestone in a long working career.
Lyle started his job at Great West Auto Electric sometime in 1974. “We really wanted to make this special” stated Jennifer Hinds, manager at Great West, May 26.
The party ran from an hour before lunch break until early afternoon. A combine rotor had been turned into a barbeque and was borrowed from Case IH to cook the burgers and hot dogs to feed
the crowd. Three large decorated slab cakes were brought in.
The back parts area had tables set up to hold all the food and supplies so people could put together their choices for lunch. Coffee and iced tea were available. The mood was very festive indeed.
Lyle has spent a good part of his career traveling out to all the smaller towns around making deliveries and knows a large number of people. That was quite evident by the way he was making introductions at the party. Friends, family, customers and colleagues came together Monday to celebrate.
As it happens the man of the hour has reached the status of Octogenarian as well. The response to the query if Erfle is looking to retire had this
response from his wife, Janice “He says he hasn’t won the lottery yet.” Included in the public that came to share the day were friends from businesses around Assiniboia.
The owners from head office in Swift Current were involved in celebrating as well. A couple people came down to work the front counter so most everyone from the Assiniboia location could run the party in the back.
At any given time there were approximately 50 partygoers gathered in the available space. Words used to describe this man any day of the week are vibrant, full of life. Is it any wonder that somewhere between 125 and 150 people came through the door to congratulate him. At 80 there is no sign of Lyle slowing down.
Sherri Solomko
Food, friends, family and colleagues celebrate the man of the hour, held at Great West Auto. From left are Lyle Erfle, Janice Erfle, Jim Cranfield and Jen Hinds.
Photo courtesy Muriel Fehr
Renee Clermont questions students at the Amazing Safety Quest two minute speed station. This was one of the stations available to students, during the Cade Sprackman Day.
Photo courtesy Muriel Fehr
RCMP facilitate Bike Rodeo as part of community engagement efforts
Sherri Solomko Freelance Reporter
This rodeo still includes riders but no wild horses. Assiniboia 7th Ave School students took part in a bike rodeo, held on May 28.
A bike rodeo is a handson educational event where children practice and learn bicycle skills in a controlled, safe environment. It’s designed to improve cycling confidence and safety, often incorporating obstacle courses and role-playing scenarios to simulate real-world traffic situations.
The purpose of this bicycle safety event is to teach children about traffic laws and proper bike riding techniques to keep them safe.
A safe and supervised practise environment like the school yard enables facilitators and participants alike to feel safe, away from regular community traffic.
Ashley Burnay, DSA of the Assiniboia RCMP detachment, has been run-
ning this program for a number of years and tells the Assiniboia Times, “I can’t remember how many years I’ve been doing this, but it has been 8-10 years approximately. I also do this program in Rockglen and in Gravelbourg.”
“Sometimes it’s just me running the program, although, if we have officers available to assist, it is certainly welcome and appreciated by everyone.
Most times, they are able to participate in the skills portion of the event and then lead us on a practice ride around town.
The school requests parent volunteers and EMS to attend as well. If we can have 6-10 people, it makes it much easier to manage, especially with a large class like we had yesterday,” adds Burnay.
The Assiniboia Bike Rodeo organizer and facilitator also notes that Sask Prevention Institute has many resources for bicycle safety and often times she is able to provide colouring and ac -
tivity sheets from there. This year, the RCMP provided bicycle lights for each participant.
“In my estimation, there are very few adults that wear a helmet in our community, I would say less than two per cent. And, as our children age, the helmet usage drops off dramatically. The best way to encourage safe helmet and bicycling practices are to demonstrate them as adults and parents.”
Teachers and other students are readily willing and able to lend bicycles to those students who may not have one.
Burnay acknowledges, “Bicycle safety hits close to home for me. My brother was injured when he was struck by a vehicle while riding his bicycle when he was a youth. Thankfully his injuries were not life threatening and he was able to fully recover, however as I got older and had children of my own, it became very evident how little most children know and under-
stand about bicycle safety, especially in farming communities where there is less traffic and vehicle presence. After joining the RCMP in Assiniboia, it became my mission to make sure that we educated as many children as possible in an attempt to try and lessen the num -
ber of injuries sustained by children and adults in bicycle related accidents.”
Teachers at 7th Ave School say Burnay is an avid biker and safety promoter. She teaches students bike safety, road safety, bike traffic signals and the importance of shoulder checking.
Burnay organizes stations in the school parking lot and is assisted with parent volunteers and EMT’s who help with bike helmet fitting, practise stations, balancing skills, stopping and learning how to cross an intersection safely as well as maneuvering obstacles on a bike.
Mossbank Recreation benefits from annual Dare to Dream lotto
Muriel Fehr
Freelance Reporter
Spring is in the air and that signals the annual community lottery. The Mossbank and District Recreation Board’s yearly fundraiser is the Dare to Dream Lotto. This will mark the 19th consecutive year for the event. A dedicated team works together toward making this such a huge success.
Just like spring cleaning, medical checkups and any other events that roll around after Easter, this event is automatically added to many people’s calendars. May 13th is when the phones were finally hooked up so the calls that had been attempting connection could finally go through. The kickoff has one person carrying a cell phone that interrupts every aspect of that person’s
life which they graciously take in stride as to them the cause is so worth the given time. In the words of Gwen Kowalsky, current phone carrier, one customer stated, “He was going to quit calling if it wasn’t answered this time,” so the recreation board is quite happy to have things rolling along smoothly now.
There are only 3,300 tickets available at the price of $60 each, three for $150 or ten for $400 with the draw taking place at the community hall on June 7th, 2025.
Prizes like the 2025 Kawasaki Side by Side and the 2025 Kawasaki ATV, the 2024 Buick Envision Essence, the 2024 Gator, 2024 Sub Compact Utility Tractor and 2024 Rotary Tiller or the 2025 CASE IH Farmall Tractor are sure to entice, but if they don’t the
INSURANCE..
$60,000 cash should possibly do it.
To date the recreation board has infused cash into such things as the com -
munity hall, swimming pool, ball diamonds, spray park, campgrounds and in conjunction with other funds, like the walking
path, all found inside town limits. Also available is the 50/50 draw.
The phone blitz dates run on June 4, 5 and 6 wind-
ing
Funds
the Mossbank Rink.
All funds raised go toward
The ice plant at the Mossbank rink will be this year’s recipient of the funds raised by the Mossbank and District Recreation Board’s Dare To Dream Lotto event.
Mossbank Recreation projects.
up with the grand prize draw on June 7 at noon.
raised this year will go toward the ice plant at
Students from 7th Avenue School in Assiniboia recently participated in a Bike Rodeo safety event.
Editorial & Opinions
David Willberg/SaskToday.ca
It’s an issue that comes up every four years for Saskatchewan municipalities: the impact of reassessment on property taxes.
The assessment system in Saskatchewan has long been a source of frustration. The Saskatchewan Assessment Management Agency carries out its work every four years. And it takes two years to release their findings. So that means the most recent reassessment occurred in 2023, and the adjustments weren’t applied to this year. To top it off, the changes take effect after many municipalities have passed their budgets.
For new members of municipal councils in Saskatchewan who were elected last November, they face a steep enough learning curve as it is. Reassessment is just another thing they have to contend with.
Complaints about SAMA’s process are nothing new. People who were in the Estevan area in 2017 remember all of the (understandable) griping by business owners when they saw their property taxes soar despite the fact we were well into an economic slowdown stemming from a crash in the price of oil. But because reassessment occurred in 2015, less than a year after the oil plunge occurred, they were particularly hard to swallow in 2017.
Four years ago, the impact of reassessment would have meant a $5 million hole in the city’s budget without action. This year, it would have been $1 million.
There’s always going to be lots of complaining about SAMA and the way they do things. Suggestions
have been brought forward on everything from a two-year cycle instead of four, to having a cap on the assessment increase. SAMA’s presentations tend to be long-winded and dry. But nothing seems to ever change, and so we’ll likely get more complaints in four years.
I’m sure being part of SAMA is difficult work, but it would be nice to see a system that better serves residential and business property owners, as well as municipalities.
Until that unlikely day comes, it’ll be up to municipalities to react to the system in place.
Estevan city council’s response was a proposed increase to the minimum tax for residential properties from $750 to $1,200, and to have a base tax on commercial properties of $1,000. But council since decided to have the minimum tax at $1,000 for this year and $1,200 in 2026.
I’m all for a minimum tax in an effort to cover the cost of providing services to residents. Most of a municipality’s revenues are from taxes, and they are responsible for a lot of services.
But the proposed increase for the minimum tax was 60 per cent. It wound up being about 33 per cent. And while some people who pay the minimum tax can afford the increase, a lot of them are low-income people who would struggle with a significant property tax increase, or renters who have little margin for their financials.
For those who aren’t on a monthly plan to pay property taxes, the extra $250 will be even more difficult.
OPINION: REASSESSMENT MEANS TOUGH DECISIONS FOR MUNICIPALITIES
Granted, the long-overdue demise of the federal carbon tax for consumers helps put some money back in our pockets, but expenses are still higher for a lot of people than they were before.
The minimum tax has been around for a while in Estevan. I want to say it was introduced in 2004 and was $500 at that time. There weren’t a lot of properties affected, but it was tough on them. The reasoning was what you’d expect: trying to get people’s property taxes to cover the cost of services. It’s gone up a few times since, but obviously council thought it had fallen behind if it’s looking at an increase of $250-$450.
I’m not one of those who pays the minimum tax, and I’m not living paycheque to paycheque. But I remember when I was, and an increase of $20 per month on an expense would have been difficult.
It’s death by 1,000 increases. The rising costs usually aren’t staggering. But it’s a little bit here and a little bit there that all add up. And in most cases, wages don’t keep pace with the cost of living.
I’m glad council opted for a lower increase to the minimum tax, and that it’s taking a phased-in approach. I hope the increases are actually more frequent to keep pace with the cost of doing business. I’d rather have a smaller, incremental and even annual increase in the cost of something, than a large increase every few years, especially if I haven’t budgeted for it.
Hopefully, the next time SAMA goes through the reassessment process, the impact on our community won’t be as significant.
And the next time council looks at the minimum tax, there won’t be a staggering jump.
Drought and wildlife in forecast, hot summer weather predicted
Sherri Solomko Freelance Reporter
The summer forecast says sunshine and warm temperatures will be in the mix however that will not collaborate well with drought conditions, and lack of rain.
While the Weather Network says powerful thunderstorms could be in the works across part of Canada, this could compound the problem as lightening can be one of the causes of wildfires, as well as powerful storms can also induce other serious weather conditions.
After a long winter people are cherishing the sunshiny forecast, however they also know that lack of measurable precipitation is a caveat to that, bringing new concerns for a continue dry environment, worry for the agricultural sector’s growing season and continued concern for the northern wildfires currently burning.
While conditions in the southern part of the Prairies are better leading into summer than they have been in other drought years, that a doesn’t eliminate overall concern for continued dry environment that affects grain and cattle producers.
Saskatchewan people are hoping to hear injections in their forecast of near normal precipitation for the summer.
Specifically, the Saskatchewan and Manitoba portion of The Weather Network summer 2025 forecast says, “A hot summer is expected across the region, including Saskatoon, Regina, and Winnipeg, especially during July and August. That includes a risk for extreme and extended heat waves at times.
Widespread drought is expected this summer across the central United States, and we are concerned that the drought will extend well north of the border and impact at least the southern prairies, with a risk for a significant impact to agriculture. Wildfires and smoke are also potential concerns.
However, powerful thunderstorms will provide some relief from the dry weather at times, with a risk for severe storms and localized torrential rain, especially for central and northern parts of the region.”
For more information. local residents can read the full summer of 2025 forecast on The Weather Network website.
Many spring events in Mossbank
Muriel Fehr
Freelance Reporter
Mossbank may be on the smaller side of average small towns but make no mistake, it is a happening place!! Just looking at the early spring events tells the story.
In the months of April and May there has already been a Volunteer Appreciation Night, a Fire Prevention Spring Cleanup, the annual Cornerstone Ladies Fellowship Soup and Sandwich lunch and the annual Justinsane Barbie Classic Race. Looking at Easter and the faith communities in Mossbank get together to plan the “Walk of the Cross”. This is another of the many annual events.
A quick look at the bulletin board in the post of-
Omentum art exhibit on display in Assiniboia
John Brady McDonald’s Omentum, a series of 10 paintings that touch on several of the major experiences faced by Indigenous people in this country within recent memory, is now on display at the Shurniak Art Gallery.
The exhibit is hosted by the Assiniboia and District Arts Council, Shurniak Art Gallery and the Organization of Saskatchewan Arts Councils (OSAC).
These paintings, influenced by the works of both Norval Morrisseau
and Pablo Picasso, speak to some of the major struggles and triumphs that are part of everyday life as Indigenous people, such as the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Cultural Appropriation, the legacy of Residential Schools, the Rise and Honour of the TwoSpirited in the LGBTQ, the Return of Traditional Indigenous Tattooing, the Rise in Systemic Racism Online, and the Murder of Colten Boushie. John Brady McDon -
ald is a Nêhiyawak-Métis writer, artist, historian, musician, playwright, actor and activist born and raised in Prince Albert, Saskatchewan. He is from the Muskeg Lake Cree Nation and the Mistawasis Nêhiyawak.
The great-great-great grandson of Chief Mistawasis of the Plains Cree, as well as the grandson of famed Métis leader Jim Brady, John’s writings and artwork have been displayed in various publications, private and
permanent collections, and galleries around the world, including the Canadian War Museum in Ottawa.
Omentum will be on view at the Shurniak Art Gallery during open hours from June 1 through 23, made possible through OSAC’s Arts on the Move program. Funding for this project is provided by Saskatchewan Lotteries, SaskCulture, the Department of Canadian Heritage, and the Organization of Saskatchewan Arts Councils (OSAC).
fice reveals many more events on the horizon.
To date one baby shower has already taken place and observing the number of expectant moms suggest several more on the way. Bridal showers have been booked and a memorial service at the Mossbank school library are on the calendar.
Already the group that looks after the abundance of flower beds that have been put into the main street green spaces are quite busy. With the end of the school year nearing, there will be at least one trip to the local museum coming.
Looking ahead on the posters pinned up and June is already busy. Besides the list of activities already seen are grad and several more school trips
to celebrate the coming end of the year. The senior students who haven’t already written their essays for scholarships will be frantically knocking on Carolyn Anderson’s office door. The museum is getting work done on the Ambroz house floor in preparation for the 2025 tourist season.
Students who haven’t filled their volunteer hours for credit will be looking for opportunities. Other students like the Grade 7-8 class who held a young entrepreneurs show will be discovering their skills and talents.
There is always something going on and something to do. Every trip to get the mail fills you in on the coming events and you have but to choose those that hold your interest.
A spring cleanup was held in Mossbank.
The Omentum series touches on major experiences faced by Indigenous people in the country.
Photo courtesy Muriel Fehr
Town
By Niamh Hickey
The ACHS track and field athletes who landed in the top five of events at the South Central Rural Section Track and Field meet worked hard over
the last week for the South Central District Track and Field Championships.
This year there were a total of 24 Rocket athletes who went up to Moose Jaw for the championship. The Athletes who placed first or second in their events will advance to the SHSAA Provincial Championships on June 6 and 7 in Moose Jaw.
The highlights of the intermediate girls categories include Charlize Hillmer who was the quad district champion in the girls category, Emma Helland who placed second in javelin and third in triple jump. Then in the boys
Rocket Report: Assiniboia track athletes compete in South Central meet
intermediate category Luke Kwasnicki placed first in triple jump and second in hurdles, and Paysen Kuntz placed third in both triple jump and long jump.
In the girls junior category, Shreya Virani placed third in both discus and javelin, Ava Coghill placed first in discus and shot put, second in the 200m dash, and then third in the 100m dash, Kaelyn Snape placed second in both shot put and javelin and third in triple jump, and Sheridyn Scott placed second in hurdles. In the boys junior category only Keagan Haug placed
second in the 400m dash and third in both the 100m dash and 200m dash.
ACHS only had one senior athlete advance from the South Central District Track and Field Championships; Grayson Ciocia in the boys category landed second hurdles and third in the quad. Great job to all these athletes who have worked hard in Track and Field. Good luck to Charlize Hillmer, Emma Helland, Luke Kwasnicki, Ava Coghill, Kaelyn Snape, Sheridyn Scott, Keagan Haug, and Grayson Ciocia at the SHSAA Provincial Championships!
Museum Association gives ‘Sticker of Excellence’ to Assiniboia location
Muriel Fehr Freelance Reporter
According to a press release coming out of Regina, the Museums Association of Saskatchewan (MAS) is a non-profit, collective organization of member museums, individuals and associates. The body of members was founded in 1968.
Since that time, almost 60 years, MAS has been committed to supporting the advancement of museums in Saskatchewan. Information from the communication states that they strengthen Saskatchewan museums through community leadership, building capacity and acting as the collective voice for their members.
The group has a standards based recognition of achievement in Saskatchewan museums referred to as “Stickers of Excellence.” The criteria to receive stickers are evaluations based on the “Standards for Saskatchewan Museums, Sixth Edition.”
Those standards fall under three main pillars which are Governance and Management, Collections and Communications as well as recognition of work on Reconciliation and IDEA (Inclusion, Diversity Equity and Access).
Last year member museums were invited to submit applications to be evaluated and recognized for meeting the standards.
The press release dated
April 22, 2025 stated the MAS was pleased to announce their inaugural Stickers of Excellence initiative. It further said that this will be an annual opportunity to celebrate the excellent work within their membership and encourage tourism and community pride.
More on the topic mentioned successful applicants will receive a window decal sticker which they can display and a virtual sticker for their website and online promotion for this year. Continuing the statements it is shared that the successful candidates will be acknowledged each year through a dedicated page of the MAS website https://saskmuseums.org/.
It was announced the MAS Stickers of Excellence 2025 recipients totalled six museums across the province. In alphabetical order it started with Assiniboia and District Museum being recognized for Communications through Exhibits.
Following there is Biggar Museum and Gallery being recognized for Reconciliation, Diversity and Inclusion, Management as well as Collections through Conservation and Storage, Research, Exhibits and finally Programs. Next is Humboldt and District Museum and Gallery bening recognized for Reconciliation, Diversity and Inclusion, Management as well as Collections
through Collections Management, Conservation and Storage, Research, Exhibits and also for Programs.
Another in line is Indian Head Museum being recognized for Communications through their Exhibits. After there is the Souris Valley Museum being recognized for their Reconciliation. Lastly are all the locations of the Western Development Museum being recognized for Reconciliation, Diversity and Inclusion, Management as well as Collections through Collections Management, Conservation and Storage, Research, Exhibits and also for Programs.
The Assiniboia and District Historical Museum is part of the South Central Museum Association. At this time they have 15 museum members. Drop into Assiniboia and District Historical Museum to see why they are being recognized for Communications through Exhibits.
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
Mower Operator/Laborer
The R.M. of Old Post No.43 is accepting applications for the position of Mower Operator/Laborer. Applicants must hold valid driver’s license, show willingness to follow directions and work unsupervised.
Applicant must hold or be willing to obtain Powered Mobile Equipment certification. Experience in the operation of tractor and mower, plus equipment maintenance are an asset. Applications including resume and references will be accepted until 4:30 pm June 11, 2025
For more information contact the R.M. office.
R.M. of Old Post No.43
Box 70, Wood Mountain, SK., S0H 4L0 (p) 306-266-2002 (f) 306-266-2020 (email) rm43@sasktel.net Only those considered will be contacted
Town Cemetery Caretaker Tender
The Town is seekingacaretaker for general maintenance of the Town Cemetery located at QTR PT NESec 11, TP 02, Rg 27, W2,Sup 52 on the eastsideofTown.
TheCaretaker duties would be as follows:
-Responsible for all beautificationofthe Cemetery grounds, duties would include, but not limited to: Weed whacking, grass cutting, wateringtrees, and weed spraying.
-Removal of grave covers, as approved by families, asrequested
-Provide all equipment, tools, and labour as requiredfor the position
The Caretaker would be compensatedmonthly. The position is for April to August on ayearly basis. The successful contractor will be able to start as soon as possible.
Please submit atender for all services listed above as hourly rates. Atender must be submitted in asealed envelope marked “Cemetery Tender” and addressed to: Town of Coronach,POBox 90, Coronach, SK S0H 0Z0. Tenders must be postmarked or dropped offatthe Town Office byJune5, 2025 at 4:30p.m. Highest, or any tender,may not necessarily be accepted. Tenders will be openedonJune 13, 2025 at the Town Office.
Dated this 22nd day of May 2025
Renea Paridaen
Chief Administrative Officer Town of Coronach Escape the race •office@townofcoronach.ca
The Visual History display at the Assiniboia and District Museum.
Box90, Coronach, SK S0H0Z0
The Next Generation volunteer group is off to a great start
“The Next Generation” (TNG) is a group formed by some Assiniboia students from Grades 2 through 11 to volunteer in the community and take field trips.
“It started when I volunteered at an Assiniboia and District Arts Council show,” said Sofia Lozada. “I saw another student there and thought I want to get involved too.”
Sofia followed up with a presentation to the Arts Council executive and received support to get a “junior auxiliary” off the ground. Executive member Monique LeClaire volunteered to be a mentor and was named vice-president, with Sofia as president.
At their first meeting the group adopted the name and decided to widen their approach to volunteer for organizations in the broader community.
The key to getting started was the support of the Assiniboia and District Public Library.
“We know the young people and are very pleased to offer them the use of the Kay Cristo Room for their meetings,” says Librarian Lori Crichton. “Sofia and her sister Juliana have volunteered at the library for years, so it was a natural fit.”
The Bean Lover stepped up to make coordinated T-shirts for the members and 98 CKHD – Hit Radio
made a generous donation.
To raise more money for field trips, the group is participating in the Assiniboia Community Garage Sale on Saturday June 7, under the leadership of Vaibhavi Patel.
They already took a trip to the Assiniboia and District Historical Museum.
“It was fun to see all the cars,” said Fundraising Coordinator Neej Pansuriya, “But those animals are pretty scary!”
Field Trip Coordinator Fairy Patel says trips to the Assiniboia RCMP Detachment and the Saskatchewan Science Centre are in the works. “We brainstormed all the places we would like to go,” says Fairy, “Then we used coloured dots to vote for our favourites.”
Treasurer Mahee Patel said, “I learned about debits, credits, and balances. I’m doing the same work for TNG as my Dad does for his business.”
Secretary Kavya Pansuriya takes notes at the meetings and Membership Coordinator Tanak Dobariya takes attendance. “We have 12 members right now,” she said. Member artist Jiya Italia designed a thank you card for TNG.
The Next Generation meets at the Library on Tuesdays after school. Young people of all ages are welcomed to join. Monique
Box90, Coronach,SKS0H0Z0
TENDERFOR DRAINAGE
TheTownofCoronach is tenderingfor drainage repairslocated at theCoronach District Museum,240 1stStreet West,tobecompleted in 2025.
Tender is to include:
•Removal of anyexistingmaterial, as needed,around (6)six windowsprior toremoval of windowsstipulatedbelow
•Remove(3) threewindows,seal with Blueskin,and place plywood overtop paint plywood on themuseumbuilding, eastsidebasementwindows as wellasremoveplywood andfill in theholeadjacenttothe museum steps
•Remove(3) threewindowwells,seal with Blueskin,and placeplywood overtop paintplywood on thedoctor’soffice/houseportion;windows are located on theeast, southand west
•Removethe coveredstairstothe tunneland covertoensurewaterproofing for future years
•Fill in theareaasrequiredwithaggregate
•Slope aggregatearoundthe museum to ensure waterflowsaway fromthe building
•Place aggregateinthe back of thedoctor’shouse andensurethe area is slopedawayfromthe buildingand waterdrainsawayfromthe buildings in the back alley.
•Provide alllabour, equipment, andaggregaterequiredtocompletethe job
The contractor is required to provide evidence of liability insurance to the Town. The Contractor will also be responsiblefor providinga clearance from the Saskatchewan Worker’sCompensation Boardprior to being awarded thetender
For more informationonthe locationofwindows or theproject,pleasecontact theTownOffice at 306-267-2150
Please submit all costs above as atotal cost.A tender must be submitted inasealed envelopemarked “Tender for Drainage”and addressed to:Town ofCoronach, Box 90, Coronach SK S0H 0Z0. Tenders must be postmarked ordropped offatthe Town Office by 4:30 pm on June 6, 2025. Highest, or any tender,not necessarily accepted. Tenders will be openedJune 13,2025 at6:00 p.m. at theTownOffice, 212 1stStreet East, Coronach,SKS0H0Z0.
Datedthis16thday of May2025
ReneaParidaen
ChiefAdministrativeOfficer
Town of Coronach
Escapethe race •office@townofcoronach.ca
LeClaire and Sofia Szemeredi volunteering at the Assiniboia and District Museum.
2025 Poplar River Mine Hay Tenders
A look at the origins of Quirky Quilters group in Mossbank
Muriel Fehr Freelance Reporter
About half way down main street in Mossbank is a building with two doors. Emblazoned on the window beside one door is The Tot Spot and on the other is Quirky Quilters.
The quilting group gathers every Wednesday for a day of bustling activity. Now this group wasn’t always called the Quirky Quilters and they didn’t always use this building.
In 2001 the Evangelical Lutheran Ladies as they were then called started a quilting group and their total mission was to make quilts for the homeless. It was a very serious working environment as they had a mission to fulfill.
In the historical scrapbooks is an article from a 1950’s Good Housekeeping magazine that speaks of an U.G.L.Y. quilting group but alas my research only reveals that those let-
ters mean Quilt As You Go. In most quilting jargon writeups the acronym is QAYG so I have more research to do.
As with any volunteer group newcomers are always welcome and heartily encouraged to join.
At the time they met in the basement of the Lutheran Church.
Fast forward to October of 2022 and the latest membership of quilters acquired the space they
now inhabit. At the end of December in 2022 the Lutheran Church officially closed which had prompted the group to find a new home. The latest group created a new name to go with the space. They have expanded their mission to include disaster situations, Transition House, Carmichael Outreach in Regina, Legion Veterans, Kate’s Place Regina Rehab, Nipawin Oasis Community Centre, Good Neigh -
bour Society, Salvation Army and Joel’s Harbour.
In the very organized set of rooms is a quilting haven that is used in an assembly line. Several rooms have closets and every available space has a shelving unit where the material, quilt tops, sheets, quilts and other items are sorted and stored.
One room holds the three donated and one purchased sewing machines where the quilt tops are sewn together.
Another room has a table where the quilt tops are designed and the tops, batting and backs are put together. A third room holds the quilt frame where the new quilt is mounted and several ladies do the final stitching. There is a central area where quilt blocks are cut in readiness for the next quilt top pattern. In the front entrance the finished quilts hang on a laundry rack.
Each of the ladies has
a niche where her talents are utilized. One quilt was given to the public library for its current silent auction and another was given to the museum to hold a raffle so the Ambroz house floor could be replaced. The quilting group holds raffles to raise money to buy batting as that is the one thing no one donates. At this point they have material from the 1950’s, as someone’s grandma passed away and the material was donated, all the way to the present time. Used jeans, work pants, material, sheets, thread, yarn and all quilting paraphernalia is always welcome and greatly appreciated. Unfortunately none of the original members are still in the current group. The Quirky Quilters wish to say a huge and heartfelt thank you for the donations of all quilting items, sheets, backings, material, quilts or any other donations received.
Precious Metals Re cyclingRoadshowc
Assiniboia
Cash in your old &broken GOLD,SILVER, JEWELERY & COINS
Terr yBurrill is apreciousmetalsbuyer andPresident of TC Precious Metals headquarteredin Airdrie, Alberta, and takesthisshowout to westernCanada. TC Precious Metals will be in Assiniboia,Sask. making itsway throughWestern Canada Youcan bringyourgold, silver,coins and Canadian papermoney to theMoose LodgeHallbetween 10am and5pm each day. No appointmentisrequired. “TCPreciousMetalshas theunique advantageofdealingdirectwitha smelter” oneoreventwo middlemen. TC Precious Metals purchasesgoldand silver from othergoldbuyers, pawn shops, dentists, jewellersand jeweller ymakersaswellas from thegeneralpublic.”Goldisreachingrecord highprices andsilverremains very strong
TC Precious Metals analyzes your gold, silver,coins andpaper moneywhile you watch, with theprocess explainedto youindetail. Coinswithnumismatic (collectable)value areset aside from thosewitha ‘melt’ value. Silver itemssuchasjewelry
thoughttocontain gold will also be analyzed forhallmarks, precisetesting that is done while made,and youdecidetosellornot
obligationand we don’tpressure anyone into selling.”
thequote,great,but it’s also about information” says Burrill.“Alot of times people just need to know aballparkprice
“Nearlyhalfofthe world’s annual gold harvestcomes from recycled gold.
Energy costsareaabout $500 to mine anew once of gold where recycled gold is about $10 peronce.”A result of this is goldand silver purchasedatthe showsand latermelted goes back into themarket with alower environmental impact
Outoffashion jewelr y, single earrings,brokenchains, unlovedjewelry, charmbracelets,dentalgold, nuggetsand
Wednesday, June 11 Thursday June 12
coin with silver content. Dimes, Quarters, Half Dollarsand DollarsfromCanada andAmerica canbesortedand thesilver contentdeterminedinnotimeatall People areencouragedtobring in anyand allcoins forassessment.
TC Precious Metals canassessand purchase Canadian andDominionof experience workingwithestate, executors, widows andwidowersina respectful and caring manner
No appointmentnecessary
These ladies handle the hand stitching in the assembly line of quilting. From left are Debbie Nagel, Fyrne Hanson and Maureen Kawa.
Photo courtesy Muriel Fehr
Arleen and Gordon Zahariuk
In Loving Memory of
FlorenceFisher
Your presence we miss , Your memory we treasure. Loving you always , Forgetting you ne ver. Fore verL oved andMissed Floraine, Leann& David, R ox ann&Jason andfamilies
Wheatgrass Timothy etc Star City SK Birch Rose Acres Ltd 306-921-9942
I am currently PURCHASING single to large blocks of land. NO FEES OR COMMISSIONS Saskatchewan born and raised, I know farming
& B provided. Competitive wages. Valid drivers license req’d. Send resume and work references to: Bryden Construction and Transport Co. Inc. Box 100, Arborfield, SK S0E 0A0; Fax: 306-769-8844 Email: brydenconstruct@ xplornet.ca www. brydenconstruction andtransport.ca
Oneyearhas passed ,but memories stay, Quietlyremembered, daytoday Happythoughtsoftimes together, Memories that will last fore ver. Fore verL ovedand Missed aine, Emil &Helen,R ick&Shannon, e& Anita, Mike &Lynnand families
Fitness is an important component of overall wellness
Fitness is an important component of overall wellness. Routine exercise helps a person burn calories and maintain a healthy weight. Weight gain is common among aging individuals, and is a risk factor for diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
Staying active also can help with muscle and bone density, which can decline with age. Exercise is important for maintaining bone strength as the body ages. Strength-training exercises put stress on bones so they can make bones stronger.
Now that it is apparent why fitness is key during senior years, it’s time to explore some routines that may be best for people age 50 and older.
Yoga: a low-impact practice that improves muscle strength, balance, mobility, and flexibility. Chair yoga is a lower-impact form of the exercise.
Cycling: Riding a bike is a cardiovascular workout that offers a wide range of benefits. Most people find riding a bike is easy on the joints, and regular cycling can increase muscle strength and enhance flexibility. The pace and intensity of rides can be customized depending on riders’ speed and the routes they ride.
Pilates: an exercise routine that now bears his name in the early 20th century. Pilates emphasizes core strength and stability, but works all the major muscle groups in the body. Since it is another low-impact
exercise, it can be suitable for people with joint issues. Body weight exercises: As individuals age, they may find that working with dumbells, barbells or weight equipment at the gym is too taxing. Using body weight to build strength is a low-intensity option. Squats, wall push-ups, chair push-ups, and resistance bands can be used to build strength.
Walking: an unsung hero in the fitness realm. Just 30 minutes of walking every day can increase cardiovascular fitness, strengthen bones, reduce excess body fat, and boost muscle power and endurance. Walking is low-impact and less taxing on joints than jogging or running.
E-readers can essential for mature bookworms
E-readers can be a game-changer for seniors. If you’re thinking about buying one, here are a few reasons why you should.
Numerous advantages
This gadget is designed to take your reading experience to the next level and enhance your comfort. First, you can easily adjust the font size to cater to your vision needs, making it perfect for those with reduced vision. Say goodbye to borrowing large-print books from the library or using a magnifying glass to decipher a text.
Secondly, e-readers are lightweight and easy to handle. You can read for longer without tiring or developing aches and pains.
Additionally, e-readers have a matte-finish touch screen and built-in backlighting. This means you can read in the dark at night without having to turn on a lamp. You can also dim or brighten the screen to suit the ambient light in your surroundings—ideal for preventing eyestrain and glare. Another interesting point about e-readers is their incredible storage capacity. You can “carry” thousands of books on the device without adding clutter to your home.
Finally, depending on the model, you can enjoy access to dictionaries, information that enriches your reading experience or practical functions like highlighting.
When you experience a minor ailment, talk to your local pharmacist about your options for over-the-counter or prescription medication treatment.
Business Services Guide
broaden horizons, expand minds, stimulate curiosity and cultivate critical thinking for readers. They also improve reading and writing skills, while bringing lessons and current events to life!
In their 40th year, STARS remains committed to ‘One Mission’
Sherri Solomko Freelance Reporter
STARS Air Ambulance has flown more than 63,000 missions across Western Canada since 1985.
STARS has flown to Assiniboia six times in the past year. Coronach, Viceroy, Gravelbourg and Rockglen were also included in the past year’s mission list.
President and CEO, STARS, Dr. John Froh, said in the spring Horizons issue, “Since 1985 it has been our mission to provide critical care to the patients who need it most, no matter where they live, work, or play – and it would not be possible without the immeasurable community support we have received since day one.”
In a 2024-25 year-inreview, STARS Emergency Link Centre handled 38,420 emergency requests, which is an average of 105 emergency requests per day.
STARS is thankful for
36,571 annual donors. While the government does help fund this valuable emergency service, fundraising and donors help complete the costs needed for annual operation.
Saskatchewan has recorded 921 missions in the past year that vary from cardiac to accident to other urgent medical issues.
This monumental 40th anniversary has included many milestones which included: STARS became the first Canadian program to receive full accreditation as a critical care provider from the Commission on Accreditation of Medical Transport Systems. STARS Regina and Saskatoon bases open in 2012 with commitments made by lead donors including Nutrien, Veren, The Mosaic Company and the Saskatchewan Crown Corporations. The Pegasus Project launched raising more than $3M with a 1968 Ford Mustang Fastback built and toured through Saskatchewan,
which ended in the vehicle being auctioned off. In 2013, the Regina base of STARS became the first air medical service in Canada to carry blood on board. Today, the program has expanded across all six bases, with each base carrying four units of blood to make lifesaving transfusions possible mid-flight.
“Each mission costs approximately $5,400 dollars, though that fluctuates based on the distance the helicopter has to travel and the specific needs of the patient we are responding to, “as quoted from a 2024 story on SaskToday.ca regarding the 10,000 missions flown milestone reached.
Community first responders and folks on the ground are of great assistance when it comes to a non defined designated landing site, one that is flat and free of obstacles. STARS provides training to first responders across the prairies to help manage landing zones for this
exact scenario, ensuring the safety of people on the ground and the crew in the helicopter.
It usually takes about eight minutes from the time a call is accepted to the moment the STARS crews are in the air. Each helicopter has been converted into a flying intensive care unit, staffed by industry-leading medical professionals and equipped with cuttingedge medical technology and equipment. This equip-
ment includes ultrasounds, blood bags and defibrillators, to name a few.
Saskatchewan residents know that their locations may include bumpy roads and STARS provides the best options for dealing with severe spinal and brain injuries where movement can be the patient’s worst enemy.
“Thanks to Saskatchewanians’ incredible generosity we have been able to save thousands of lives
across virtually every community in the province. “
STARS maintains their gratitude for ongoing support from communities across Saskatchewan, and with that being said, they also affirm they will continue to work as hard as possible to provide critical care, anywhere, at anytime to the next patient in need, stating, “because who you are, and where you live should never impact your chances of survival.”
NDP calls for prov’l medal for first responders who die in line of duty
John Cairns SaskToday.ca
Opposition New Democrats are calling on the province to award a provincial medal to honour first responders who die in the line of duty or from workrelated injuries.
At a news conference at the legislature Wednesday, Opposition House Leader Nicole Sarauer stood with David Reed, a decorated advanced care paramedic and a Canadian Armed Forces veteran who has been a proponent of the medal. Both called on the province to bring in a provincial medal, which Sarauer said would be the first medal of its kind in Canada.
“Every day, police officers, firefighters and paramedics across Sas -
katchewan put their lives on the line to protect our communities,” said Sarauer. “Sadly, some of those brave men and women make the ultimate sacrifice and never come home. There’s no way to fully repay that, but that shouldn’t stop us from trying.”
She said a provincial medal would not be just symbolic, but would provide families a “lasting form of recognition, something that they can carry forward through generations.”
Sarauer noted Reed’s campaign has backing from the Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers, the Paramedic Services Chiefs of Saskatchewan and the Saskatchewan Association of Chiefs of Police.
“Unfortunately, the Minister of Corrections, Policing and Public Safety has rejected the proposal, choosing instead to pursue a memorial. Now, a memorial is important and we do support that move, but we can and we should do both. A medal is personal. It’s something a family can hold, display and pass down. That kind of recognition matters. That’s why we’re calling on the government to reconsider, commit to creating a provincial medal to honour Saskatchewan’s fallen heroes.”
Reed that during his time as a paramedic and as a Sergeant Major, “I have had the opportunity and the honour to be a part and officiate around 22 funerals across Canada for paramedics and other colleagues that have lost their lives in the line of duty and more than a few that have lost their battle due to OSI, or as we know it, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.”
Reed adds that the memorial “is a fantastic idea.
However, within the Emergency Services community, we truly feel this is only halfway because having a memorial is a great place for family, friends, the public to go to remember, reflect and to learn….
“The medal is something that the family will cherish and will be able to wear on any special event that emergency services would have so that our community, emergency services and the general public would know at a quick glance that their family paid the ultimate sacrifice so that their family member has made a difference in somebody else’s life.”
As for the province’s response so far, Sarauer said she was surprised by the response they had received.
“When David came to my office, I thought it would be an easy, nonpartisan project that could be done for all of government to show our respect for First Responders,” said Sarauer.
“The response we received back from the Minister (of Policing and Public Safety Tim McLeod) was that instead of doing this medal, they were working on a memorial. And I think David outlined very well why the memorial is nice, but it’s only one step. And there are a lot of reasons why a medal is really important for us to show our thanks and our respect for fallen officers.
“So we have written back to the Minister urging him to reconsider, asking more detailed questions about the creation of this memorial, and asking that he meet with David.mBecause I think when you hear the story that David has and all of the funerals that he attended and why this is
incredibly important to first responders, it’s a very hard thing to say no to.”
Reed said that prior to the election, there were meetings with ministers Christine Tell and Paul Merriman.
“Due to the election, they were not able to carry on with their duties,” Reed said. “So the project actually kind of got dropped. I don’t take defeat well. So with that, I started reaching out to other colleagues and asking, where do I go? I got directed to members within the NDP party. They were very, very interested and had open ears and helped me with guidance.”
In a statement, the province had this to say about the request for a provincial medal:“The Government appreciates the continued advocacy of first responder David Reed.
“The Government of Saskatchewan, through the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency, is currently developing the ‘Saskatchewan Protective Services Memorial’ in Wascana Centre, which is expected to be unveiled by this fall.
“The memorial will be a physical monument that will recognize the continual service and sacrifice of Saskatchewan’s first responder and public service sectors. This includes those whose deaths are attributable to their duties while keeping the province’s citizens and resources safe.
“The memorial will align with the already established Saskatchewan Protective Services Medal, whose recipient criteria include those “who have law enforcement powers, or work in safety services and professions whose work is directly related to the safety, security and protection of people.”
STARS is celebrating their 40th anniversary.
Courtesy STARS Ambulance