The first-even Age Well, Age Smart Expo was held at the Prince of Wales Complex on March 21. It was created from the vision of a group of ladies who saw the need, organized by Geraldine Ruzicka, with the help of Eveline Bahuaud, Brandy Gyman, Ann Benoit, Laureen Brezinski, Jean Woolhouse,
By Sherri Solomko, Freelance Reporter
The Assiniboia and District Historical Museum is set to welcome visitors once again as it prepares to open for the 2026 season on March 30.
According to the museum committee, the facility will operate on weekdays throughout the spring, with expanded hours beginning in June when summer staff and additional volunteers are available. Summer hours will include opens on the weekend.
In preparation for the opening, volunteers have been hard at work behind
Age Well, Age Smart Expo held at Prince of Wales
Melody O’Reilly and Andrea Elson.
The day was designed to offer seniors information on many aspects of growing older. The building was abuzz with seniors and many other community members, exploring the many vendors tables offering information and advise on issues faced by seniors every day such as health,
finance, estate planning, banking and much more.
The highlight of the day was guest speaker Mary Walsh who kept her audience in stitches with laughter of her version of growing older, but even better with age.
It was a hugely successful Expo and was very well attended with 275 registered guests.
Museum prepares for season opening
the scenes. Committee members noted that maintaining the facility, including essential systems such as the furnace, is a key part of ensuring the museum’s longevity. They expressed gratitude to the volunteers who contribute year-round to the museum’s operations.
Community support continues to play a vital role in the museum’s success. Donations of funds, garage sale items, and silent auction contributions—as well as visitors who tour the museum or enjoy its mini golf—help sustain the organization.
Organizers also acknowledged the strong turnout at events held throughout 2025, including Ace Academy, a garage sale, a spring fashion show, Museum Day, the Black Top Hop barbecue, and the Christmas Market.
This season will feature several new additions to the museum’s collection. Among them are glass tractor and vehicle batteries once used to power rural homes, as well as a gas mask and suitcase
dating back to the Second World War. The museum has also acquired historical photographs from celebrations at St. Peter and St. Paul churches in Flintoft and Elm Springs, Saskatchewan.
Other notable additions include a pair of restored stained-glass windows originally removed from St. Boniface and St. Lawrence Anglican Church for preservation. With the help of volunteers, the pieces have been refurbished and protected with additional glass coverings to ensure their longevity.
Looking ahead, the museum’s annual fundraising garage sale is scheduled to begin in April. Organizers are currently accepting clean, unbroken donations, as well as items for upcoming silent auctions.
The 2026 Museum Day will feature guest author Montgomery Colt, whose “Rock, Paper, Scissors” series blends real historical figures and events with contemporary storytelling to bring the Wild West to life.
Continued on Page 2
Mary Walsh was the guest speaker at the Age Well, Age Smart Expo.
Assiniboia Fire Rescue had 17 calls in the first quarter of 2026
Sherri
Solomko Freelance Reporter
Assiniboia’s Fire Chief, Terry Lacelle, told the Assiniboia Times that out of 17 calls they received in the first quarter of 2026, 11 of them were alarms.
“We also responded to one EMS Life Assist, one electrical hazard with a MVC, one outside fire, one structure fire and two STARS landing zones.”
The AFD team remains committed to training to be as prepared as possible when the alarm bell rings.
Lacelle acknowledged, “First-quarter fire training consisted of equipment refresher, operation of gas monitoring equipment, Inspections at RPNH and AUH, SCBA
refresher training and fire investigations course delivered by the SPSA.”
The community fire department said there are some important springcleaning tips that will help keep fire prevention in mind when you undertake your spring-cleaning routine, helping to prevent a fire in the future. Clear out any clutter from your home
Did you know that clutter provides fuel for a fire to spread? Make sure that all of your exits are clear and have a clear path to them. If you have any items blocking an exit, move them immediately. This ensures your family will have good escape routes should you need to evacuate due to fire.
Limerick Community Centre
Check Smoke Alarms and Carbon Monoxide
Detectors
Test your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they are working properly. Now is an excellent time to install them if you don’t have any. Replace your carbon monoxide and smoke detector batteries and look for any
corrosion on the batteries or their connection points in the device. Replace the entire device if you notice any corrosion inside the battery compartment. Otherwise, supply your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors with a fresh set of batteries.
Watch for frayed cords
If you have any electrical appliances or tools
with frayed electrical cords, replace them as soon as possible. Using damaged electrical cords could start a fire. This is also an excellent time to check your extension cords too. Too many devices plugged in can overload the outlet and cause a fire.
Check for water
Check for water around electrical appliances, such
as your washing machine, dryer, or dishwasher. If you notice any water, have a professional inspect your appliance to make sure it is safe to use.
Check all of your appliances to make sure they are in good working condition. This includes your stove, oven, microwave, toaster, coffee maker, and anything else you use daily. If you notice any issues with an appliance, have it repaired or replaced as soon as possible. Spring is an optimum reminder to clean clothes dryer vents and lint traps
Regularly clean your clothes dryer lint trap. Lint is highly combustible and can easily cause a fire if it isn’t removed. Clean your dryer vent and hoses at least once a year to remove and prevent any excess lint buildup or blockages.
Assiniboia Museum ready for season
Continued from front page
The museum committee has also welcomed two new members this year and is encouraging others to get involved. Volunteers and new committee members are always needed to help preserve and share the region’s history.
The museum is part of the South-Central
Museum Association, a collaborative group of museums and heritage organizations across southern Saskatchewan. The association meets twice annually and includes members such as the Wood Mountain Ranch Rodeo Museum, Gravelbourg Museum, and the Deep South Museum of
Ogema, among others. Additional organizations, including Avonlea Museum, have expressed interest in joining. The association maintains a shared website highlighting its member institutions. It is currently led by president Sally Svenson, with representatives including Louis
Stringer and Lorne Kwasnicki. Meetings are hosted by different member museums throughout the year. The museum’s annual general meeting will take place ahead of the official opening, marking the start of what organizers acknowledge will be another successful and engaging season.
Rocket Report: Basketball season ends, Badminton in full swing
By Gillian Couttie
In sports news, our senior girls’ and boys’ basketball teams’ seasons have come to a close as both teams travelled to Regina Christian School for SHSAA Regional Playoffs this past weekend.
The senior girls’ team kicked off Regionals with a 70-66 win over Unity, while the senior boys’ team also started Regionals with a mighty 79-69 victory over Ministikwan. With these wins, both Rocket teams advanced to play Regina Christian School in the Regional Championship The ACHS squads put up as much fight as they could muster, but unfortunately came up short, making this the end of their
basketball seasons. Both of our teams had tremendous seasons that made our school proud with outstanding accomplishments, and both ended up finishing 8th overall in the entire province in the 3A boys and girls categories.
Throughout this time, our teams were shown so much support by peers, coaches, teachers, and the rest of our community.
Our seniors get a big thank you for all of the leadership and growth they have shown during their tenures: Kady Kuntz, Ella Kwasnicki, Ayna Wills, and Radu Bumbac. Additional thanks go to all the coaches who have volunteered hundreds of hours of their time since the very start of the season in November: Mr. Rohrke, Dave Willis, and Sarah Feeley for the girls program; Lewis Thomas, Mike Topola, Josh Nesvold, and Nathan McCaslin, and Josiah McDonald for the boys program. None of this could have been possible without our ACHS athletic director, Mr. Lothian, who did all of the behind-the-scenes work, including scheduling
times and people, and arranging transportation for our teams.
Everyone is already up and ready for the next basketball season. Seeing so much potential in our current Grade 9-11 players, we can’t wait to see what the future has in store for these Rocket athletes!
Badminton season is now in full swing. The senior badminton team travelled to Mossbank this past week for some exhibition matches, while the bantam badminton team saw their first tournament action. This past weekend was the annual Badminton-O-Rama tournament for students in grades 7-9, co-hosted by AES and ACHS. Tournament attendees are from Assiniboia and several surrounding rural communities. The Rockets’ athletes had great success in the tournament. Sarah Chen and Sadie Jepson captured gold in girls’ doubles; Mya Huys earned bronze in girls’ singles; Houston Hillmer won gold in boys’ singles; Caydin Karst captured bronze in boys’ singles; Brayden Woolhouse and Kage Fafard won gold
in boys’ doubles, and Zeke McCaslin and Ethan Delorme earned the silver medal in boys’ doubles.
In school news, we had another spirit day on March 20. ACHS students and staff came to school dressed up as their favourite outdoor sports activity, showing not only school spirit but also spirit for the new weather we hope sticks.
The ACHS Drama Club has been out and about in the community, spreading the word about their upcoming spring performance and their entry into the SDA One Acts competition! The club is also looking for local donations to help cover travel costs and registration fees. If you’d like to support the students, you can contact the school at 306-6423319. This year’s show runs April 14, 15, and 16 at ACHS, with doors opening at 7 p.m. Tickets will be available at the door. Each night will also feature a fun raffle basket draw, with proceeds going right back into supporting the club.
Stick around for next week’s Rocket Report!
Local talent skates into spotlight as Warriors reach U18 AAA final
By Sherri Solomko, Freelance Reporter
Two athletes with deep roots in southern Saskatchewan will take centre stage this weekend as the Moose Jaw Winmar Warriors open the SMAAAU18HL championship series.
Mossbank’s Chase Petersen and Wade Franks of Scout Lake have both earned key roles on the Warriors roster heading into the league final against the Regina Pat Canadians,
which began March 21.
Petersen has delivered a strong season, recording 26 points in 31 regularseason games and added another 10 points through eight playoff contests. His hockey journey has taken him from Mossbank to Swift Current for bantam, then to Moose Jaw AAA, and even a stint with the WHL’s Lethbridge Hurricanes before returning to the U18AAA Warriors in October 2025. He has also
ASSIN IBOIA
SENIOR REBELS
The Assiniboia Senior Rebels would like to Thank all of their sponsors, fans and volunteers for your support during this season. We appreciate your continued support and see you next year.
earned call-ups to the WHL Warriors this season.
“It means a lot, especially being from a small community where you have a lot of friends and family that support you,” Petersen said. “They’re always wanting the best for you.”
Franks has been equally impactful, tallying 35 points in 39 regular-season games while anchoring the blue line during the playoffs. His steady development path began in Assiniboia Minor
Hockey and continued through Weyburn and the U15 AA ranks before joining Moose Jaw’s U18 AAA squad in 2023.
Now drafted by both the WHL’s Everett Silvertips and the SJHL’s Flin Flon Bombers, Franks is gaining recognition as a reliable, high-minute defenceman.
“Obviously, it means a lot being from a small town that loves to watch hockey,” Franks said. “Having friends and family support you the
Notice is hereby given that the assessment roll for the TOWN OF MOSSBANK for the year 2026 has been prepared and is open to inspection in the office of the assessor Monday to Friday from 9:00am-12:00pm and 1:00pm-5:00pm.
A bylaw pursuant to section 214 of The Municipalities Act has been passed and the assessment notices have been sent as required. All fees must be submitted to the local assessor at the TOWN OF MOSSBANK. All appeals must be filed with the Secretary of the Board of Revision, Nicolle Hoskins, which can be sent electronically to: secretary@westernmunicipal.ca, or via post/mail to TOWN OF MOSSBANK, P. O. Box 370 Mossbank, SK S0H 3G0, and forwarded to the Secretary of the Board of Revision.
Any person wishing to discuss the notice of assessment or potential appeal may contact the assessor at the TOWN OF MOSSBANK, P. O. Box 370 Mossbank, SK S0H 3G0. A notice of appeal, accompanied by a $50 appeal fee, which will be returned if the appeal is successful, must be submitted by the 24th day of April, 2026.
Dated this 23rd day of March, 2026.
whole way… wanting you to achieve your goal.”
Warriors management has taken notice of both players’ contributions.
“Chase has been exceptional in these playoffs, from playing physical to scoring big goals and creating energy,” the team’s general manager said. “On the back end, Wade has played big minutes against top lines. He’s a steady shut-down defenceman and has shown that throughout these playoffs.”
Back home, support for Petersen has been especially visible. Mossbank Minor Hockey President Jason Letnes said community members — including lo-
cal students — travelled to watch Games 3 and 5 of the semi-final series.
“He has re-energized younger players,” Letnes said. “He comes out and watches the U18 team. He’s a down-to-earth kid who’s also a standout player.”
With Petersen set to return to Mossbank to graduate and both players elevating their games at the right time, anticipation is building across the region. The championship series against Regina opened March 21, with Game 5 scheduled for March 28 if necessary. Full schedule details are available through league and team channels.
APRIL 21, 2026 SUPPER AT 6:00 PM ($15.00/ticket) MEETING TO FOLLOW
Brayden Woolhouse and Kage Fafard
Sarah Chen and Sadie Jepson
Photos courtesy of ACHS
Submitted by Nick Kossovan
Most people in a tough job search are not failing because they lack talent.
They are failing because nobody ever taught them how to compete strategically.
The professionals landing right now know exactly how to tell their story. They walk into interviews prepared, not just rehearsed. They do not leave salary negotiations on the table. They have a system built around how hiring actually works today, not five years ago.
Purposeful Prep exists to give you that system.
Founded by a Harvard-grad recruiter and a tech entrepreneur with 300+ placements, we work 1:1 with job seekers and career changers to build the strategy, story, and confidence that turns a stalled search into real offers at companies like American Express and top-tier tech firms.
Talent got you here. Strategy gets you hired.
LinkedIn is flooded with job seekers complaining that many job ads don’t mention salary. While their frustration is valid, publicly criticizing the lack of compensation transparency wastes mental energy and doesn’t look good to recruiters and hiring managers. Do complainers genuinely believe their posts and comments will influence employers, who aren’t spending their time on LinkedIn reading comments— except perhaps when assessing a candidate’s LinkedIn activities to decide if they’re interview-worthy— to overhaul their hiring process?
Controversial digital footprints negatively affect job seekers more than they realize. While you’re free to say, or write, what you want, you’re not free from the consequences of what you say.
I understand that work isn’t a hobby, and pay is important. However, in fairness to employers, there are many reasons why they might choose not to include compensation details in their job ads or ask applicants for their salary expectations, a few being: Seek candidates motivated by fit over money. While this line of
thinking contradicts why people work, it’s understandable that employers want workers who are enthusiastic about the job, not just the paycheck.
Avoid salary questions from current workers. It’s common for employers to have salary disparities among their employees.
Avoid wage wars with competitors. Employees who contribute measurable value to their employers’ profitability are often on the lookout for higher pay, especially in higher-level professional circles. They’ll get stuck at the top of the salary range. If a candidate is offered a starting salary near the lower end of the range, they might feel disgruntled before even beginning the job.
More diverse applicants. In some cases, salary isn’t listed because the employer is willing to pay even more for a truly exceptional candidate. From personal experience, I know that salary ranges are meant for average applicants, but if an ever-so-rare ‘must-hire’ candidate comes along...
Whether you agree with the reason(s) or not isn’t the employer’s concern, nor is it their concern that omitting salary details in job ads can seem like a power move to pay as little as possible—an unsubstantiated narrative that job seekers tend to promote.
The employer’s closed-door reasoning for not including salary in their job postings isn’t the job seeker’s concern. It’s because job seekers are hyper-focused on what they can’t change, which, in this case, having employers list a salary or a small gap between the minimum and maximum salary pay range in their job posting, that they’re overlooking a huge business opportunity.
Stay with me; what I’m about to explain will require a shift in your mindset—letting go of any limiting beliefs you might have about employers’ motives, along with any frustrations and anger you have towards them, which recruiters and hiring managers can sense.
Employers whose job postings don’t mention compensation often (no guarantee) are willing to negotiate salary; a skill most job seekers lack and, for some reason, refuse to learn. My advice: Name your salary
The Art of Finding Work: Salary-free job ads are business opportunities
expectation and stick to it!
I’ve never accepted a job where I wasn’t comfortable with the salary; consequently, I’ve never been the employee who constantly complains about not being paid enough. Whenever a recruiter or employer contacts me, which, thanks to my writing of The Art of Finding Work, occurs frequently, I make it a point to inquire within the first five minutes what the compensation plan is, where the job is located, and how the role fits with the employer’s bottom line. (Is the job essential to the employer’s success or just a ‘nice to have’?)
Growing up, I was taught that employees are free agents providing services; essentially, each employee operates as a business of one. I came to understand that an employee doesn’t own their job; their employer does. This understanding led me to adopt the view that by making my salary requirement non-negotiable—rather than having expectations or desires like most job seekers—I controlled my salary, not the employer. By waiting for an “offer” from the employer, you give them too much leverage. State your salary requirement, and see what happens. “But Nick, what if I’m too expensive?” Do you want to work at a job where you’re constantly feeling underpaid? You deserve to
feel satisfied with your salary. Don’t be salary-guilt-tripped or salarybenchmarked.
Your attitude should be: “Yes, I may be expensive; however, here’s how I can impact an employer’s bottom line.”
You probably noticed that I’ve overlooked the crucial part of securing the salary you want, which most job seekers fail to do. You must justify your compensation request (salary, paid time off, benefits, paid sick days, perks, bonus, profit sharing, etc.) by demonstrating the value you can bring to an employer’s profitability. As I’ve mentioned in previous articles, job hunting is a sales activity, and interviews are sales meetings based on the core sales principle: features tell, benefits sell.
There’ll always be job postings without salary information, or with a ridiculously large salary range. How you react—how you spend your mental energy—is a matter of choice. You can get frustrated, angry and publicly condemn employers, which, as mentioned, hurts your job search, or say to yourself, “I’m a business of one! going to prove my worth and name my salary!”
Nick Kossovan, a wellseasoned corporate veteran, offers “unsweetened” job search advice.
Town of Assiniboia deems speed awareness project a success
Sherri Solomko Freelance Reporter
The Town of Assiniboia announced through their social media on March 21 their speed awareness and youth pedestrian safety project.
The post read, “Thanks to funding from the Gov-
ernment of Saskatchewan’s Provincial Traffic Safety Fund, we were able to install new solar powered flashing pedestrian crossings and solar stationary speed signs in key school zone corridors throughout our community.”
The TOA also noted that
the upgrades are already making a difference as drivers are slowing down, visibility has improved and children now have safe, more predictable routes to and from school.
These new safety features have been installed at Empire Road and Empire
Assiniboia RCMP Crime Stats
The Assiniboia RCMP reponded to 27 calls of service during the week of March 16 to 22.
These included:
- 911 Act/Misuse - 3
- Assistance to Canadian Police (Non-RCMP) - 2
- Breach of Peace - 1
- Criminal Harassment - 2
- Disturb the Peace - 2
- Fraud Greater Than $5,000 - 1
- False Alarm - 4 - Fraud Less Than $5,000 - 2
- Items Lost/Found - 1
- Mischief – Damage to Motor Vehicle - 1
- Suspicious Person/ Property/Vehicle - 4
- Traffic - 2
• Speeding
- Utter/Export Counterfeit Money - 1
- Wellbeing Check - 1
Submitted by Rev. Robert Scott, Assiniboia Apostolic Church
“Can We Love Our Neighbour?”
“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind; and, Love your neighbour as yourself.” - Luke 10:27
Lately many folks have been asking how we should treat those who have differences of opinion or practice from ours. You don’t have to look far, these days, to see evidence of disagreement between different individuals, groups, and whole nations.
We react, as we should, to the violence that erupts. Some express concern about those of different religious or cultural philosophies who may choose, or be invited, to live among us. We will inevitably also have disagreements with those who, for all intents and purposes, are “just like us” from time to time.
The Christian perspective is based on the teachings of Jesus- “love your neighbour.” Asked who our neighbour is, Jesus told a story about two men who, under ordinary circumstances, would not associ-
Place, Seventh Avenue East and Second Street East, Seventh Avenue East and Fourth Street East, Fourth Street East as well as Assiniboia Avenue.
The Town also shared traffic data through their busiest corridors from January to March showing:
Average Speeds – 30
km/25 km.
Percentage of drivers exceeding posted limits –7 per cent/13 per cent.
Traffic volume counts –44,894/39,552.
The town acknowledged their Public Works team, Barricades and Signs for supplying crossing, poles and speed signs,
the schools’ principals for their support and advocacy as well as the RCMP for their ongoing partnership in community safety.
“Together, we’re building a safer, more walkable Assiniboia. Let’s all continue to do our part — slow down, stay alert, and keep our kids safe.”
ate with one another. (Luke 10:25-37) The one man was attacked, robbed, and left for dead. Others who could have helped all passed by. But one man, whose views would have been opposed to the victim’s, took time to assure that he was cared for. This was what being a neighbour meant, in Jesus’ mind.
It is interesting to note what happens when tragedy of one sort or another strikes a community, province or state. We are ready to help without hesitation. For example, when forest fires break out anywhere, there are no reports of folks refusing to help their neighbours before it is determined whether they are folks about whom we might voice opposition to in daily life. Help was needed. Help was given. We hold the same opposing views as before. And we may still want to bring others to our way of thinking, but which attitude will yield the best results?
It is one thing to oppose a philosophy, or a lifestyle, but quite another to hate individuals based on those differences. Violence erupts when we let those sentiments get out of control.
We know how to be neighbourly. We can be part of the solution.
Our Town
Assiniboia Library receiving internet improvements from the province
Sherri Solomko
Freelance Reporter
Lori Crighton, Branch
Librarian, Assiniboia & District Public Library, told the Assiniboia Times that as far as she knows, and is given to understand, their location will be amongst all CNET routers in rural branches of Sask. libraries that will be replaced.
The Saskatchewan Government put out a media release on March 17 announcing that improved internet equipment will
come to public libraries across the province.
“The Government of Saskatchewan works with SaskTel to upgrade routers in 245 communities. These new devices will enhance network security, improve Wi-Fi speed and reliability and ensure libraries are equipped for the future,” noted the media release.
The nearly $500,000 investment will continue to support the existing Community Net (CNET) service to libraries, including
Notice of Call for Nominations
PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that nominations of candidates for the office(s) of:
Councillors: Town of Bengough
Will be received by the undersigned on the 22nd, day of April 2026 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Town of Bengough office located at 181 Main Street Bengough, Saskatchewan,
And during regular business hours from April 7 th, 2026 to April 21 st, 2026 at the Town of Bengough located at 181 Main Street Bengough, Saskatchewan. Nomination forms may be obtained at the following location:
Town of Bengough - Office 181 Main Street Bengough, Saskatchewan
Dated this 7th, day of April 2026.
Yvonne Johnston (Returning Officer)
free Wi-Fi.
CNet is a private network connecting all educational organizations and libraries in a single, provincial network. The new routers provide stateof-the-art security features and will keep pace with increasing local demands on the network over the next five years.
"Ensuring each rural public library has the necessary network capacity
in place is crucial to providing high-quality services," Education Minister Everett Hindley said. "We recognize the vital role our public libraries play in the education landscape, and these improvements mean faster, more reliable connections for learning, working and staying connected."
All devices will be provided to the libraries by July 31, 2026.
Notice of Preparation of Assessment Roll Town of Bengough
Notice is hereby given that the assessment roll for the Town of Bengough for the year 2026 has been prepared and is open to inspection in the office of the assessor from 8:30 am to noon and 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm on the following days: Monday to Friday, March 27 to April 28, 2026.
A bylaw pursuant to Section 214 of The Municipalities Act has been passed and the assessment notices have been sent as required.
Any person wishing to discuss the Notice of Assessment or potential appeal may contact the assessor at the Town of Bengough, Box 188, Bengough, SK. S0C0K0.
A Notice of Appeal, accompanied by a $250.00 appeal fee, which will be returned if the appeal is successful, must be filed with Nicolle Hoskins or designate, the Secretary of the Board of Revision, Western Municipal Consulting Ltd. P.O. Box 149 Meota, SK. S0M1X0 by the 28th, April, 2026.
Dated this 27th, day of March 2026
Yvonne Johnston Assessor
March 27 to April 8
Communities in Bloom present a Desert Planter Sale Call Linda @306-642-0175
March 27
Mental Health First Aid Essentials Course Canalta Hotel, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
March 28
Suds N’ Supper ’26 sponsored by the Assiniboia Rotary Club St George’s Catholic Hall. Social 6 p.m. Supper program 6:30 p.m. $50 Advance Tickets Only. Call – 306-640-8191
March 30
Assiniboia Arts Council presents Rum Ragged Concert Prince of Wales Auditorium 7:30 -9:30 P.M.
April 10 to May 1
Assiniboia Public Library present Spring Silent Auction. Bidding in person or on Facebook. April 24 and 25 Chamber of Commerce Trade show Prince of Wales Centre. Check Facebook for details. April 25
Shurniak Gallery presents author Trevor Herriot and his book Toward a Prairie Atonement. 2 p.m. April 30
St. Paul’s United Church present a Chinese Food Buffet. Buffet supplied by New Moon Café. 5 to 7 p.m. Advance tickets only at 306-642-5386 or from any St. Paul Church Member.
are the new addresses: Linda Hall • halllinda@sasktel.net Sue Wilson • wilsons@sasktel.net
Main Office email: circulation@sasktel.net
Sherri Solomko Freelance Reporter
There are millions of reasons to deal with Mankota Stockmen’s Weigh Co. Ltd. and one of those reasons is seven decades of trust built at this southern Saskatchewan agriculture business.
Beefing up the southern Sask. business has been a result of the same goals of those that brought this business into being.
A milestone has been achieved in 2026 for Mankota Stockmen’s Weig as they were incorporated in September of 1956, thus marking 70 years in business this year.
A spokesperson for the business responded to questions from the Assiniboia Times sharing how their business began,
“The forward-thinking ranchers of the area wanted a weigh scale rather than shipping all to Moose Jaw and being weighed there. This is still a shareholder company run by a Board of Directors.”
Chris Williamson is the General Manager and was preceded by former managers John Williamson and Donald T. Gillespie. The agriculture company
employs 55 people.
“We are solely a cattle auction business, serving the great southwest of Saskatchewan, keeping Mankota relevant in the shrinking rural economies.”
The company website outlined, “We have grown over the years and have a very positive outlook for our future. Keeping equipment, facilities, computers and staff up to date with the changing business environment.
Mankota Stockmen’s Weigh continues to do what we do best – bring buyers and sellers together, where we honour tradition while looking to the future!”
Evelyn Chaning, office manager of the business acknowledged it is a great time to be in the cattle business as record dollars and numbers are being realized and numbers are both steady and increasing. She noted water quality, and lack of water, is a very real concern for all in the cattle business.
The southwest Sask. business said their yards receive consignments from all over southern Saskatchewan. Cattle are shipped to Alberta, Ontario and even the USA,
as well as many local feedlots and pastures.
“Our local buyers and bidders help keep the market as best as it can be.”
Secretaries who served this shareholder business from the beginning include Gordon McIvor, Michael Sherven, Evelyn Chanig, and new incoming in May will be Shawneen Esson.
The company’s website includes a brief history of the business noting the first year, 2000 head of cattle sold at three sales for $157,000.
“In the 1970’s a carload scale was purchased and a new scale house was built to house it, as well as a new heated sale ring. Sales in 1978 totaled over the million dollars on 10,617 head,” stated the website history.
Office computerization came in 2003, as well as the scale. The website also noted that in 2015, 27,000 head were handled and over 44 million resulted in sales. The company saw record breaking dollars in 2025 and ascertains that 2026 looks like a very exciting year.
Local residents can follow this business online at mankotastockmens.com or their Facebook page.
To our farmers, ranchers & agribusinesses
Your hard work contributes to keeping Saskatchewan strong and growing while helping feed our communities and people around the world. Please prioritize safety, and best wishes to a successful 2026. Visit saskatchewan.ca/farmsafety to learn more.
Hon. David Marit, MLA for Wood River
Saskatchewan firm wants its camera system to go global
Janelle Rudolph Glacier Farm Media
A Saskatchewan tech startup is one of the 15 agtech companies from across Canada and the United Kingdom to join Cohort 5 of Cultivator powered by Conexus’s AgTech Accelerator.
Ultraview Technologies, based in Nipawin, Sask., developed AgVision HD, an IP-based camera system for ag equipment that allows farmers to view around their equipment, between drill rows and in the spray tank with high quality.
The system, with its multiple cameras, was recently on display at Canada’s Farm Show in Regina.
“We have come to market with a new high resolution implement camera. So, we tackled the market of low-resolution analog systems, and we went the digital route,” said Brad Reykdal, Ultraview Technologies co-founder.
“All of our camera systems are 1080P, and we have both 10-inch and 12-inch screens. And the other nice thing about our system is we have a cart mounted power supply with one cable that comes to the tractor cab.”
The cable sends the info of up to eight cameras to the monitor.
The company says it’s one of the very few models that enables that many cameras to be viewed at once, which is a key difference between it and its competitors.
This cable and the rest of the system ties into the tractor’s power supply and is an “extremely low power draw” of less than 35 watts, even with eight cameras.
The company says AgVision HD has simplified cabling, installation and troubleshooting as well as improved hardware quality.
The AgVision HD monitors are made with aluminum alloy housings and laminated glass touch screens, which the company says make them a bit more durable and longer lasting. Because of this, they are on the higher end of pricing, but Reykdal says the upfront costs pays off with minimal repairs or replacements.
As for the cameras, they can be either white light to see full colour, such as in tanks, or infrared for outside the cab and around equipment. As well, the company says, they can be
mounted nearly anywhere.
“We’re rated to go inside the tanks … (and) we can go on the implements themselves,” Reykdal said.
“We’ve got some guys seeding between the rows, so they’re putting cameras on the shanks to see exactly where they’re seeding.”
Reykdal said there’s little worry about damage with the cameras because they’re nitrogen purged and IP67 rated, meaning no water ingress or dust.
However, the system is made up of standalone screens and can’t be integrated into other operating system monitors. Depending on the producer, this can be a positive or a negative, depending on space in their cabs or if they want to be able to view the camera’s images without flipping screens.
Reykdal and co-founder Kyle Boxall formed the company in 2024 and hit markets in 2025.
They’ve been slowly making a name for themselves, attending farm shows such as Manitoba Ag Days and Canada’s Farm Show, and placing as runners-up at the Western Canadian Crop Production Show Innovation Awards
this past January.
Their decision to apply for Cultivator’s program was to expedite their growth and reach new markets.
“We’re definitely looking at Australia. Then the U.S. and Europe would be the kind of the three markets,” he said.
“We’ve had many requests from all those areas for the cameras, so trying to navigate the ins and outs of doing those.”
Another aspect they hadn’t considered previously is potato and vegetable farming. They’ve heard from those producers that they need a camera system for planting ease.
Reykdal hopes that the
AgTech Accelerator can also help them with company expansion strategies and figuring out how to expedite the import of their manufacturing components.
A lot of their manufacturing is done internationally and then shipped to Nipawin, where it’s assembled. One aspect they would like to change is sourcing more parts from domestic manufacturers.
Cohort 5 will kick off in April, with the finale taking place during Ag in Motion in July.
AgTech Accelerator enables founders to access the resources needed to expand their reach and learn more about the steps in de-
veloping their companies. It also provides necessary business connections.
“Cultivator is part of a much larger national and global ecosystem, and our focus is accelerating the path to commercialization,” Laura Mock, Cultivator’s director, said in a press release.
“We work closely with industry partners, farmers, academia and government to help innovators move their technologies from development to real-world adoption.”
Including AgVision HD, there are 11 Canadian companies in the cohort and four from the United Kingdom.
SALE RUNS FEBRUARY 19 - MAY 6, 2026
AgVision HD founders Brad Reykdal and Kyle Boxall with their system in their booth at Canada’s Farm Show 2026. Photo by Janelle Rudolph/Glacier Farm Media
Saskatchewan budget increases ag investments
Ryan Young SaskToday.ca
Agriculture is receiving a boost in the provincial budget, with an investment of $662.7 million, up six per cent from last year’s Budget.
Total expense for Agriculture is $1.68 billion for the 2026-27 fiscal year.
The province is contributing $89.4 million to the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership to continue supporting the province’s agri-food and value-added sectors.
Around $524.3 million is being invested towards business risk management programs including Crop Insurance and AgriStability. It’s an increase of 8.4 per cent from last year’s budget.
The Budget has allocated $37 million towards research to support key personnel at crop and livestock research facilities and projects.
About $200 thousand is allocated for expanded mental health supports for agriculture producers, and their families through the Saskatchewan Farm Stress Line. As of April 1st, the Farm Stress Line will merge with the National Farmer Crisis Line to provide free, confidential mental health support and additional access to follow up counselling.
The budget is also fully funding animal welfare enforcement for livestock and companion animals through the Saskatchewan Animal Enforcement
Agency.
Provincial Agriculture
Minister David Marit says the provincial budget protects farmers, ranchers, and the ag industry amid market volatility and weather-related challenges.
Cooper and Lucas Nicolson children enjoyed signs of spring during a sunny day on the farm. Submitted
Carlee Layan held a cattle drive at the farm Submitted
Ranchers raise concerns over proposed CFIA traceability
Sherri Solomko Freelance
Reporter
A social media group known as Sask. Ranchers for Ranchers, held a town hall meeting at the Prince of Wales Complex in Assiniboia, which was nearly a full house, as outlined in the March 13 issue of the Assiniboia Times. The event was hosted by Julia Fairbrother and Tiara Shaw, the duo who started the Facebook group. They said the turnout indicated that the recently proposed Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) traceability regulations have garnered plenty of attention.
Fairbrother and Shaw are young ranchers who met while working at Saskatoon Livestock Sales.
A summary of the CFIA traceability issue can be found on its website. Proposed regulations are not currently in place or finalized.
A quick summary of the traceability issue: among others, CFIA is proposing that ranchers and cattle producers report individual cattle movements to and from vet appointments, shows, rodeos and exhibitions.
Producers and ranchers meeting in Assiniboia, and at other town halls held around the province, aim to raise awareness about the regulations and advocate for the industry, inform producers about these possible changes, and also to offer a safe place for concerns and questions to be raised.
Fairbrother said, “Together we share a good understanding for different aspects of the industry as we not only understand the ranching and sale barn side, but Tia brings the trucking side of things and I bring in the feedlot side.”
Both women currently work full-time jobs in addition to their ranching work, and therefore understand first-hand how difficult it can be for producers to attend meetings or even have time to do their own research at home.
“We started this Facebook group after our meeting in Swift Current as a public space for ranchers to be able to share any and all information about what’s going on in the industry, specifically the things that are of high importance and affect producers directly. We did this as not only has
there been a lot of trust lost in producer groups to effectively inform the industry about important topics but also to advocate for us,” said Fairbrother.
Fairbrother notes there were some important questions and concerns raised at the meeting: How will this affect small communities when people sell out due to being over regulated? Why is it that there are producers who know more about the regulations than the people sitting on the associations that were originally pushing for this? At what point do we start taking our check-offs back? How will the burden for this affect suicide rates? This is going to be detrimental to rodeos and 4-H.
Fairbrother states, “My favourite topic that came up is the topic of failure to inform the industry. The associations have been quick to blame producers for not coming to meetings or doing anything to be aware of what is going on and while we do carry some of that, there are some important points to note.
“First of all, they should be thanking their lucky stars producers did not know what was going on
as some of the people who are taking a paycheque from CCA and SCA would not have been voted in. But there is also the aspect where 47.7 per cent of ranchers also have a second job, so when these meetings are held mid afternoon on weekdays it’s immediately making it almost impossible for almost half of producers to make it to the meetings. There is also the part where ‘they held meetings and had a comment period’ on this topic yet even after speaking to thousands of producers, the only ones who knew anything about it were the ones with direct ties to associations or CFIA.”
The Facebook ranchers group duo add, “This makes producers wonder how it can be said they did their due diligence when it seems a 4H mom and two mid-20-year-olds, who are not part of any association or organization, were able to make everyone aware of it and hold multiple meetings with over 150 people each in attendance?”
Both Fairbrother and Shaw say they are grateful to SCA for making a statement against the proposal
and hope it continues its opposition. The duo, along with others, are calling for improved transparency and communication from industry associations.
“We would all also love to see CFIA come to a meeting and show good faith that they are willing to work with us, however they have made it very clear they are unwilling to do so,” says Fairbrother.
“If we are doing this for herd health and safety then why is CCAs first goal for 2030 about greenhouse gases and emissions and
animal health and safety so low on the list?” This question came from a producer Fairbrother and Shaw have been working with who has taken a lead role in learning about the issue.
Fairbrother and Shaw said they have been told by anonymous sources that their call-to-action meetings may have caused tension, and that CCA and SCA may be trying to quiet concerns. However, they say this only motivates them further, knowing they are backed by many producers.
Julia Fairbrother and Tiara Shaw. Courtesy of Julia Fairbrother
Farm Show draws crowds, but farmers hold back on spending
Denis Conroy SaskToday.ca
The crowds were back, the booths are busy and the conversations are constant as Canada’s Farm Show returns to the REAL District.
Thousands of producers, exhibitors and industry leaders moved through one of the country’s largest agricultural trade events, reinforcing its reputation as a key meeting place ahead of seeding season.
But beneath the steady foot traffic and packed aisles, a more cautious tone is emerging.
Canada’s Farm Show, operated by REAL District, continues to highlight the latest in agricultural technology, equipment and innovation. The annual event typically draws tens of thousands of attendees and more than 250 exhibitors, showcasing everything from precision agriculture tools to large-scale machinery.
For many producers, it remains an important opportunity to gather information and prepare for the year ahead.
At the same time, economic pressures are reshaping how those conversations
translate into action.
“Farmers are facing increased costs of production, and that’s going to impact their bottom line,” said Bill Prybylski, president of the Agricultural Producers Association of Saskatchewan, in previous public comments on farm financial conditions.
Those pressures are being felt across the industry. Input costs for fuel, fertilizer and equipment remain elevated compared to historical averages, while higher interest rates have made financing large purchases significantly more expensive.
Statistics Canada has also reported ongoing volatility in farm expenses in recent years, contributing to tighter margins for many operations.
That reality is playing out on the trade show floor.
Producers continue to visit booths, ask questions and evaluate new technology, but many are taking a more measured approach when it comes to major investments.
The shift reflects broader uncertainty across global markets, including trade disruptions, fluctuating commodity prices and ongoing
geopolitical instability. For equipment manufacturers and dealers, those factors can directly influence pricing and availability.
Despite that caution, attendance and engagement at the show remain strong.
Canada’s Farm Show continues to serve as a hub for innovation and collaboration, offering producers access to new tools aimed at improving efficiency and sustainability. From datadriven farming systems to advancements in automation, the focus remains on helping farmers do more with fewer resources.
The event’s timing, just ahead of seeding, also makes it a critical planning point for many operations.
For some producers, however, the current economic climate is also affecting decisions beyond purchasing.
Travel costs, time constraints and tighter operating budgets are forcing farmers to weigh how and where they spend both time and money. That has contributed to more selective participation for some, even as the event itself remains well attended.
ADAMA Canada’s Stomping Grounds recipients announced
Azure McGonigle
SaskToday.ca
For the third consecutive year, ADAMA Canada has taken applications from across the country for the company’s Stomping Grounds community investment initiative, and has announced the more than 20 recipients who will receive funding. Of the 22 community projects selected, 13 Saskatchewan communities have been chosen.
Projects in Saskatchewan that will receive funding from ADAMA Canada include:
• Building a new multifunctional facility, which will include a rink and walking track, in Langenburg;
• Bleachers and indoor seating to complete the new ice rink in Ituna;
• Replace and upgrade the refrigeration system with a more efficient and environmentally friendly ice plant in the La Palestre Arena in Gravelbourg;
• A new playground and surfacing for the children in Mankota;
• Personal protective equipment and anhydrous ammonia incident response training for the Wawota, Carnduff, Carlyle and Stoughton fire departments;
• Fencing around the Little Seedlings Daycare outdoor play area in Wilkie;
• A new ice plant, renovations and washroom facilities for neighbouring ball diamonds at the Kinistino Sports Complex in Kinistino;
• The recently opened Little Acres Learning Centre in Davidson;
• A new ice plant for the Goodsoil Arena in Goodsoil; and
• The opening of a new food bank in Eston. The community projects selected will receive funding up to $10,000, seeing ADAMA Canada investing a total of $127,000 to this
year’s recipients.
“Every application tells a story of hope, pride and possibility for the community it serves. What truly stands out isn’t just the impact of the investment – it’s the heart behind it. The passion, commitment and genuine care that people pour into their submissions is incredibly
inspiring,” said Jodi Starodub, Marketing Lead at ADAMA Canada. Starodub also shared that there were close to 200 applications submitted.
Since launching the Stomping Grounds community initiative in 2023, the company has contributed more than $240,000 to over 40 community pro-
jects and over half a million dollars to community investment initiatives since 2018.
“A common thing we’ve heard is that many of the smaller communities across rural Canada feel left out or overlooked when it comes to outside funding for local programs and facilities,” said Starod-
ub. “It brings everyone at ADAMA great joy to support these communities and the backbone of rural Canada – agriculture – through Stomping Grounds.”
To see a full list of this year’s recipients or previously supported projects, or to learn more about Stomping Grounds, visit adama.com.
Out-of-season elk tags offered to hunters to help control damage
Karen Briere SaskToday.ca
The elk depredation program recently announced in Saskatchewan isn’t likely to help producers dealing with damage, says a wildlife expert.
University of Saskatchewan animal science professor Ryan Brook said there are more and better options than turning to guns.
“We need some kind of a long-term plan here,” Brook said.
“What I always tell producers is we need to take a toolbox view of this.”
The province’s environment and agriculture ministers announced last month that producers who had experienced significant elk damage and filed claims with Saskatchewan Crop Insurance Corp. could obtain eight elk tags for use between Jan. 15, 2027, and the end of March, outside of hunting season. The producers can use the tags themselves or hire an experienced hunter.
SCIC will administer the free tags, and producers must report on the success of their efforts.
The Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation questioned the government’s approach, saying it raises concerns about resource management and privatization of wildlife.
“Depredation tags are an allocation of permits to select individuals and do not follow the principle of equitable access to the resource,” it said in a statment.
“They also raise a concern around illegal outfitting that needs to be recognized and addressed in the roll-out plan to prevent individuals from prof-
iting by the tags that have been allocated to them for the purpose of reducing elk numbers and impacts to feed stores on their property.”
It wondered what constitutes significant damage and how the initiative’s success would be measured.
The SWF said the tags are a stop-gap solution and fencing around haystacks would be a better option.
Environment minister Darlene Rowden said she knew the organization wasn’t happy, but she wasn’t either.
“Do they like depredation tags? No. Neither do I, you guys. I wish this problem wasn’t happening,” she told reporters.
“They were happy to hear about the fencing options and stuff like that. We’re not just handing out depredation tags. We’re also providing mitigation.”
Rowden said eligible landowners will have to commit to implementing fencing and other preventive measures, but those details aren’t yet available.
Agriculture minister David Marit said the program is targeted because elk aren’t a problem everywhere.
“We’ve heard from our colleagues, we’ve heard from municipal leaders, that there’s herds of 300 and 400 out there. We know of cattle ranchers that are rolling out bales and the elk are there. It’s almost one to one,” he said.
Rowden also said the government hopes the tags will help disperse the large herds. Most of these are located in east-central regions and northwest of Prince Albert, she added.
Brook said it’s import-
ant to think about tailored solutions for each farm and respect that each producer will make choices that work best for that farm. Culls are ineffective, he said, but the preventive measures do work.
“Barrier fencing is certainly one of the most successful that I’ve seen in my experience,” he said.
“These are high quality
14-foot telphone treated poles, buried four feet into the ground, with eight feet of heavy duty game wire on the outside of the poles. The last couple of feet at the top have a couple of strands of high visibility game wire.”
Brook said if these types of fences are built to high standards and well maintained, they are effective at
keeping elk out. He said he has documented this in his research after speaking to dozens of farmers.
There are other types of fencing, including 3D fences with electric wire, and even guardian dogs that help. Lights and the “scary man” device that waves its arms and makes noise work to a point but are less effective, he said.
Blood meal from a slaughterhouse spread around bales in a field will deter elk, as will some commercial deterrents.
Producers who like to swath or bale graze are attracting elk. Brook said producers should think about the timing of those techniques because once elk get feed and get comfortable, they will stay.
Bourassa family is fostering growth in agriculture
Sask. Polytechnic Media Relations
For the Bourassa family, supporting Saskatchewan Polytechnic is both a tribute to the past and an investment in the future.
In memory of their father, Dan Bourassa Sr., the family has donated $100,000 to Sask Polytech’s Time to Rise campaign to help expand and renew the Agricultural Equipment Technician (AET) program learning spaces in Saskatoon. The gift will support hands-on training spaces that prepare students for careers in Saskatchewan’s vital agriculture sector.
“Truthfully, the sale of the business sparked the desire to make a meaningful donation in our dad’s name,” said Kurtis Bourassa, former partner of E. Bourassa & Sons now E. Bourassa & Sons, a Redhead Equipment Company. “This felt like the right way to give back to an industry and an institution that has meant so much to our family.”
Over four generations, the family built a reputation rooted in integrity, service and community involvement. Today, the company continues to operate four locations in Assiniboia, Carlyle, Radville and Weyburn as part of Redhead Equipment, preserving its centurylong legacy.
Founded in 1924 by Emile Bourassa in Radville, Saskatchewan, E. Bourassa & Sons grew from a small coal and wood business into one of the province’s most respected agricultural equipment dealerships. In 1948 the business became Bourassa and Sons when Emile partnered with his sons, Albert and Romeo.
After Emile’s retirement in 1950, Albert and his wife Madeleine took the reins. They introduced new equipment including Morris RodWheeler, Versatile and John Deere. The company continued to grow as the third generation joined. Dan starting in 1964 and his brother Richard in 1968, both contributing significantly to its growth. Dan worked in the sales end of the company, eventually becoming the sales manager. Richard obtained his Farm Machinery Mechanics (FMM) diploma as it was know in 1971, working as the sole mechanic in the shop.
Dan played a pivotal role in the company’s growth from the 1960s onward, helping guide its expansion through his leadership and strong relationships with customers and staff. Known as a people person, he believed in developing talent and supporting the communities the business served.
That commitment to people and education is also reflected in the family’s long-standing connection to Sask Polytech.
The company is now operated by the fourth generation, Dan Sr. and Cecile’s children Dan Jr., Doug, Kurtis and their sister Diane. In 1995 Dan Jr. entered the business, after completing a 2-year Business diploma. He began his career working under the mentorship of his father, becoming the sales manager in 1998. In 1997, after graduating with a Parts Management diploma, Dan’s son Doug joined the family business. He started in the parts department and helped in sales and on the road. Kurtis earned a Civil Engineering diploma,
eventually joining the business in 2003 as the general manager. Diane followed in 2007 as the controller after obtaining a university degree in business.
Together with their uncle Richard, they represent generations of Sask Polytech alumni who helped shape the family business. “We’re actually all alumni in one way or another,” Kurtis said. “Without Sask Polytech and its training programs, I don’t know what our dealership world would look like.”
Throughout the years, E. Bourassa & Sons relied heavily on alumni of the AET and Parts Management programs, often sponsoring students from their communities and supporting them through apprenticeships and distance learning. This approach helped develop skilled technicians who returned to work in
rural Saskatchewan.
“Without trained technicians, we don’t have customers,” Kurtis explained. “It’s an essential service for our industry and it always will be.”
The family’s gift will go towards the expansion, helping double the size of the AET training space and introduce new technologies that reflect modern agricultural equipment and systems. The expanded training space will allow students to gain experience on the same types of machinery they will encounter in the field, strengthening their readiness for the workforce.
Kurtis says he was especially pleased to learn that the AET program spaces will be renewed and expanded. “I was really happy to hear it was going to be repurposed and improved,” he says. “There’s going to be
more space and better use of it, and that’s going to make a real difference for students.”
Dr. Larry Rosia, president and CEO of Sask Polytech, says the Bourassa family’s support reflects the strong partnership between industry and education. “Gifts like this ensure our students have access to modern facilities and industry-relevant training. The Bourassa family’s generosity will benefit learners and employers across Saskatchewan for generations to come.”
Following the December 2025 sale of the business to Redhead Equipment, this donation also marks a meaningful transition for the family. While ownership has changed, the Bourassa legacy and the name continue as E. Bourassa & Sons, a Redhead Equipment company. Now working alongside Redhead Equipment to
support staff and customers through the transition, Kurtis and his siblings remain deeply connected to the people and communities that shaped their careers.
“This gift is about more than enhancing learning spaces,” Kurtis said. “It’s also an investment in people, bright futures and strong rural economies.” For the Bourassa family, the donation is more than a financial contribution. It is a reflection of their father Dan Sr.’s values, their own experiences as alumni and their belief in the power of education to transform lives.
By honouring their past and strengthening opportunities for future agricultural equipment technicians, the Bourassa family continues a centurylong tradition of fostering growth in Saskatchewan’s agriculture industry.
Pictured, l-r, Dan Jr., Doug, Kurtis and Bourassa, along with Diane Herriot.
Photo submitted
Saskatchewan agriculture spending to rise next fiscal year
Karen Briere
SaskToday.ca Saskatchewan’s agricultural spending is going up next year on the expectation of higher AgriStability claims.
The 2026-27 provincial budget announced March 18 includes an estimated $116.3 million for AgriStability, up from $53.1 million last year.
It also allocates $46.9 million for AgriInvest, up from $42 million in the current fiscal year.
The federal government provides those estimates.
Business risk management programs account for the lion’s share of the agriculture ministry’s budget at $524.3 million, compared to $483.8 mil -
lion in 2025-26.
The province’s share of crop insurance premiums is set at $269.2 million, down from $296 million.
Both programs combined cost more than $76 million to deliver.
Overall, the ministry is estimating spending of $660.8 million. Last year, it estimated costs of $623.1 million.
The finance ministry released third quarter results for 2025-26 indicating total agriculture spending should be down about $280 million from budget.
This is mainly due to lower-than-budgeted crop insurance indemnities, thanks to improved crop yield and fewer claims, partly offset by higher Agri-
Stability benefits paid out.
In addition to ministry estimates, the budget groups together expenses by theme. For agriculture, this total is $1.7 billion, or 7.6 per cent, of all spending projected for the next fiscal year.
This theme includes the ministry estimates, as well as the Saskatchewan Agricultural Stabilization Fund, Prairie Agricultural Machinery Institute and Prairie Diagnostic Services. Theme expenses are up $90 million from last year, primarily due to AgriStability.
The budget document noted that crop insurance indemnities have been higher recently, which has reduced reserves.
“While the 2025-26
third-quarter forecast marked an important shift — showing lower-thanexpected indemnity expenses compared to earlier projections —2026-27 is expected to be a year in which premium revenue exceeds indemnities, allowing the fund to rebuild reserves,” it said.
The existing reserve is about $1.3 billion.
The 2026-27 budget also doubles the tax credit available to volunteer firefighters, search and rescue personnel and medical first responders from $3,000 to $6,000.
The provincial budget overall projects spending of $22.2 billion on revenue of $21.4 billion, for a deficit of $819 million.
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Doreen Beatrice (Watchorn) Oakes
It is with profound sadness we announce the passing of Doreen Beatrice (Watchorn) Oakes beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. Doreen passed away peacefully on March 14th, 2026 at the age of 91. Born on December 31st, 1934 in Assiniboia, Saskatchewan, Doreen and her twin sister were the youngest of 6 children born to John Sr. and Elizabeth (Maebank) Watchorn. She was predeceased by her parents, sisters Marjorie McGirr and Olive Pettem, and brothers Robert and John Watchorn. She is survived by her husband Richard Oakes and five children: Garry Oakes (Kathy), Heather and Holly Oakes, Stuart Oakes (Jennifer), and Dawna Youngstrom (Erick) as well as grandchildren Tamara and Sarah Oakes, Jennifer (Sam) Vanderstoop; Sam, Finley, and Delaney Oakes; Jack, Kaitlyn and Spencer Youngstrom; as well as her twin sister Dorothy Platzer, and numerous nieces and nephews. Doreen spent her younger years in Assiniboia growing up on the family farm before moving to Salmon Arm from grade 8 until graduation. She developed a love for the outdoors enjoying volleyball, softball, and many other activities. Doreen’s active and caring spirit defined much of her life; inspiring her to attend Nursing school in Moose Jaw from 1954-57 with her sister Dot. After graduating from nursing, she worked as a nurse in Rockglen before setting out on a one-year international adventure – working in England at a TB sanitorium and then travelling extensively through Europe. When Doreen returned to Rockglen, she met Richard in1962 and married the love of her life in 1963 – giving them a full 62 and ¾ yrs of marriage!! In the early days, they spent time in Michigan where Doreen worked as a nurse while Richard was doing his internship before their first child Garry came along in 1965. Twins came along quickly after that – Heather & Holly (born in Michigan), followed by Stuart and finally Dawna (both born in Medicine Hat). In 1979 the Oakes family moved to Brooks where they lived until 2000. In every town they called home, Doreen became an integral part of the community raising 5 busy children, volunteering in many church and community activities, and assisting a Dr. with a hectic schedule at home and in the office! After retirement Doreen & Richard moved home to Rockglen where she became active with the Rockettes, tourism, and other community services where she gave generously of her time. Doreen was a devoted wife, a loving mother, and an exceptionally proud grandmother. She will be remembered for her nurturing spirit, deep commitment to her family, her faith, and her community. A Funeral service was held at the Rockglen Community Hall, Rockglen, SK on March 21st, 2026 at 1pm. Deacon Arleen Champion officiating. Pallbearers: Garry Oakes, Stuart Oakes, Sam Oakes, Eric Youngstrom, Jack Youngstrom, Ron Justus. Doreen will be laid to rest in Morgan Cemetery, Wood Mountain, SK where she will forever be remembered with love and respect by all who knew her. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy for Doreen’s family may be shared at www.rossfuneralservice. com. Arrangements entrusted to Ross Funeral Service, Assiniboia, SK.
Jean Helen Little
On Wednesday, March 4, 2026, Jean Helen Little (nee Wenaus), passed away at Assiniboia Long Term Care at age 96 with family at her side. Predeceased by husband Ian (2001), daughter Brenda Gabel (2025), an infant daughter, parents John and Elizabeth Wenaus, siblings Elizabeth, Clarice, Johnny, Cliff, Orval, Gordon, Joyce and Roy. Jean is survived by daughter Rita (Martin) Myers,
son William (Norma) Little, daughter Lorna (Murray) Richardson, son-in-law Don Gabel and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Jean grew up on the family farm at Verwood, SK. She attended Normal School in Moose Jaw. In 1951 she married Ian Little. They raised four children on the farm in Bengough. She taught for many years, finishing her career as the school librarian. Jean was a gifted musician and freely offered her skills to the community, church and school. A private family Funeral Service will be held at Ross Funeral Chapel. Pastor Chris Ulriksen officiating. Interment in the Bengough Cemetery. Donations in Memory of Jean may be made to the South Country Health Care Foundation for the Assiniboia Union Hospital for the Integrated Facility. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy for Jean’s family may be shared at www.rossfuneralservice.com. Arrangements entrusted to Ross Funeral Service, Assiniboia, SK.
PROPERTY FOR SALE BY TENDER
In Ogema, SK Lot 20-22, Block 11, Plan BA1993 303 Main Street, Ogema, SK TENDER CLOSE April 3, 2026 at 4:00 p.m. Highest, or any tender, will not necessarily be accepted. FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT Town of Ogema 204 Main Street Ogema, Sask Phone: (306) 459-9000 Email: admin@ogema.ca
Remember that time when Amazon sponsored your church fundraiser?
Remember when Facebook bought a case of Girl Guide cookies to support your daughter? Remember when Google provided free pizza to your child’s soccer team when they won the championship?
The Kamsack Times is hir ing a Local Jour nalism Initiative (LJI) Repor ter to produce or iginal civic jour nalism for Kamsack; Cote Keeseekoose and The Key First Nations; and surrounding towns
Job is a ter m position until March 31, 2027
Apply with cover letter and three wr iting samples to Devan Tasa at dtasa@tasamedia ca Your West Central Voice (Kindersley) is hiring an LJI Reporter for west central Saskatchewan and east central Alberta The job is a contract position until March 2027 with the possibility for continuing employment Full description at jeffgaulin com Apply with resume and writing samples to kate@yourwestcentral com
Obituaries
Obituaries
Seniors should maintain a healthy weight Lifestyle & Wellness
after adolescence, and it might be particularly difficult for seniors to avoid gaining weight.
A person’s basal metabolic rate slows downs with aging. The basal metabolic rate indicates the rate at which the body uses energy while at rest. As that rate slows down, body weight can increase. But seniors should know they aren’t helpless against nature and Father Time. In fact, there is much aging adults can do to maintain a healthy weight throughout their golden years.
Limit portion sizes when eating
Controlling portion sizes is easier said than done, particularly for seniors who dine out with frequency. When dining out, seniors can order off the appetizer menu instead of ordering an entrée, especially when visiting an establishment known for its hefty portions. At home, pay attention to serving size data on product labeling. If necessary, measure portions when eating foods such as cereal so the portion you eat reflects the serving size noted on the box.
Eat breakfast each morning
Seniors who skip breakfast, which may be more likely upon retiring, could be doing their waistlines a notable disservice. Several large, long-term, prospective, observational studies have found an association between breakfast consumption and lower risk of obesity. The less structured pattern of retirement living may compel some seniors to skip breakfast, but committing to a morning meal can help keep off extra pounds.
Commit to routine exercise
Diet can go a long way toward helping seniors maintain a healthy weight. However, diet is not the only area where seniors can help their waistlines. Routine physical activity can help seniors maintain muscle mass and make it easier to be more mobile. Staying mobile can help keep pounds off, as a sedentary lifestyle is one of the more notable risk factors for overweight and obesity. Seniors should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week. Moderate-intensity aerobic activities are those
that raise the heart rate and help seniors break a sweat, such as walking, jogging, swimming, and cycling.
A healthy weight can allow seniors to live life to the fullest. Various strategies can help seniors achieve a healthy weight.
Ross Funeral Service
Gravelbourg remains optimistic despite Hockeyville Loss
By Sherri Solomko, Freelance Reporter
The community of Gravelbourg is keeping a positive outlook following its recent disappointment in the Kraft Hockeyville competition.
Although the town did not advance, the setback was quickly softened by news of new funding support. Gravelbourg was named one of the recipients of the ADAMA Canada Stomping Grounds grant program, securing $7,500 to assist with ongoing
facility needs. (The full ADAMA story is in today’s Assiniboia Times Page 14.)
Leanne Nichol, recreation manager for the Town of Gravelbourg, said the funding announcement brought optimism to the community.
“We were definitely excited when we received $7,500 through ADAMA’s Stomping Grounds Community Initiative to support ongoing facility needs,” Nichol said, noting that both she and local rink advocate Drieden
Gauthier submitted applications. “It’s inspiring to have passionate people who love the arena advocating for it.”
While Gravelbourg was unsuccessful in other funding efforts, including Kraft Hockeyville and the Southwest Burger Challenge, Nichol emphasized that the experiences still had a positive impact. Friendly competition— particularly a spirited Facebook rivalry with Gull Lake during the burger challenge—helped foster
a sense of unity, fun and community pride.
Fundraising efforts closer to home have also proven successful. Local user groups organized a progressive 50/50 draw, raising more than $37,000 toward the eventual replacement of the community’s ice plant.
Nichol said the past few years have been a learning experience in navigating grants, infrastructure needs and community engagement, with the 2025–26 season mark-
ing a turning point.
“In every community, there are always different opinions, but it’s wonderful to see the positive voices starting to lead the way and make a real difference,” she said.
Gravelbourg’s Recreation and Culture Advisory Committee is continuing to build momentum, exploring options such as naming rights, donor contributions and partnerships with other organizations to support rink improvements.
“There is no doubt it
will take work, patience and trust to move this forward, but I’m truly excited about the rink’s future,” Nichol added. “I cannot wait to see what we can accomplish together as a community.”
Despite recent setbacks, the focus in Gravelbourg remains firmly on progress. With growing community support and renewed energy, the town is determined to move forward—proving that, win or lose, its spirit remains strong.
Willow Bunch Fire Department starts fundraising for new hall
Sherri Solomko Freelance Reporter
Community fire departments are often left responsible for costs for equipment upgrades and space updates to better serve the needs of their safety responses.
This was recently evidenced by Rockglen Fire Department’s calendar fundraiser for new extrication equipment.
Willow Bunch Fire Chief, Keith De Ronde, recently announced on their social media page that their team are drawing attention to an important fundraiser.
“Our volunteer firefighters proudly serve Willow Bunch and surrounding area, responding to fires, medical emergencies, rescue calls and community
incidents whenever we are needed. As our responsibilities grown, our current fire hall can no longer meet the operational and safety needs of a modern emergency response team.
To better protect our community, we are fundraising to build a new fire hall that will provide safe equipment storage, improved response readiness, and a proper workspace for training and operations.”
De Ronde said their fundraising goal for this project is $80,000.
“Every contribution whether financial or inkind, brings us closer to creating a facility that supports faster response times, safer working conditions and long-term community
resilience. Your generosity directly strengthens the safety of our community.”
The Willow Bunch Fire Chief told the Assiniboia Times, “Our fire hall is connected to the Town and RM office, with a single bay unit that is just long enough to fit our Engine #1, and our brush truck in it.”
This Fire Hall was built in the mid-1980’s making it almost 50 years old.
The community’s Fire Department includes a fleet of five units which include a Brush Truck, two engines, a small water tanker and a rescue vehicle, evidencing the need for more than one bay to house this fleet.
“We have looked into grants but there are none at this time for Fire Halls.
There are grants for retro fit Fire Halls to bring them up to code,” added DeRonde.
The team of Willow Bunch Fire Department is hopeful they can meet their fundraising goals in the next few years.
“We have an agreement in place to purchase a building to become our new Fire Hall that can accommodate our fleet along with 12 members of our firefighting team.”
This division of the community’s protective services say they have fundraisers in mind to help them out,
but are in the early planning stages for them all, fitting these efforts around their fire call duties and other jobs.
As representation of recent work this team has been part of, on February 23 the team responded to a bale fire that encompassed 25 bales, adjacent to a stack of 5000 bales. Gratitude was extended to feed lot employees and Bengough Fire for their assistance.
Out in service at 10:54 p.m., the WBFD team was back in service at 4:17 a.m.
The Willow Bunch Fire Chief said, with regards to
this particular call out, February 23, “A larger Fire Hall would have definitely made it easier to restock the truck, defrost some hoses and hang gear up as we had frozen equipment that night.” Saskatchewan volunteer fire departments, particularly in rural areas, need to fund raise for their needs for a variety of reasons. Sometimes the tax base is too small to cover the high costs of modern equipment, specialized training and facility upgrades, therefore fundraising is needed to bridge the gap.
