Spring Fever Lotto fundraiser helps support community projects
Sherri
Solomko Freelance Reporter
The annual Assiniboia Spring Fever Lotto benefits community projects. This year, Civic Improvement Association President, Curtis Nelson, said out of 7,000 tickets sold, there are still a couple thousand remaining. The 50/50 jackpot, as of May 8, is sitting
at $130,000. Nelson affirmed that this year’s lotto money is earmarked for a Zamboni at the arena, as well as a few other small projects.
“This is a team effort as we are grateful for the couple hundred volunteers who help make this all possible, and achieve our goals,” added the CIA
President.
The main draw will take place May 25 with the winner taking home their choice of six different prizes, one of those options being $150,000 in cash. A complete prize list is included on the springfeverlotto.com website.
Assiniboia’s CIA says this fundraiser brings in an-
nually between $250,000 to $300,000 per year, which goes a long way to funding capital projects in the community. This lottery has been a staple fundraiser in Assiniboia for 30 years, in 2025. Because of this organization’s efforts, several million dollars has been put into community projects, due to supporters
of this annual lottery.
An anniversary bonus of this lottery this year included 30 bonus very early purchaser prizes.
Previous Buyer’s Draw, listed on the lotto website, was won by Simone Tessier, Moose Jaw, $5,000, and Early Bird winner was Lylea Paulette, Shaunavon, $5,000. This year’s very
early buyer winners came from places across the province and even a winner from Virden, Man. Tickets can be purchased up until midnight May 24 by going online at springfeverlotto.com or stopping in at the Nelson GM dealership and purchasing online or calling the 1-800 lotto line.
Giselle’s Showtyme Dance Studio ends season with annual spring recital
Muriel Fehr Freelance Reporter
The final event of the 24/25 year for Giselle’s Showtyme Dance Studio ended with the annual spring recital at the Prince of Wales Cultural Centre on May third. Competitions are over and the season is celebrated and closed with a final performance. The afternoon session started at 2:00 showcasing the non competitive groups while the evening gave the competitive dancers one final fling to show everything they’d learned this year. The theme for the recital was the elements.
The songs danced to focusing on the element earth were Wonderful World, Live On The Moon, Hills Of Scotland and Counting Stars. While three of the songs were younger dancers, Hills Of Scotland was portrayed by older performers engaged in Highland Dancing. The wind element was easily shown in the songs Dust Bowl, The Wind Kiss The Sky and Fighting The Wind. Water’s element was shown in the songs
Water, Flowers Need The Rain and Lost At Sea. The last element of fire was portrayed by the songs Fire & Ice, Hot, Hot, Hot and Play With Fire. Five other pieces wrapped up the non competitive afternoon including an adult tap group dancing False Confidence led by Giselle.
The evening session included eight other pieces besides the elements as well as the Assiniboia Community Choir sharing several selections. Most of the evening was performed by competitive groups, but back for the later session was the adult tap group reproducing the afternoon’s enthusiasm. Also during the evening in one of the eight separate numbers was a performance danced at the vocational level which is a higher level where five ballet students wear the special shoes that have them on their toes.
All of the dances were choreographed by Miss Gisell, Miss Jenna or Miss Adawncia.
The last number was a piece called Graduate Spot-
Public Notice
Village of Wood Mountain
light and choreographed by Miss Giselle. The graduate student was Harper Berner who will have a few more dance exams to finish her training before she goes on to further her education both academically and vocationally. It was a very
emotional piece where the students stood in their initial pose while the audio shared goodbyes from all the other students. Many tears were shed before dancing commenced and many more during the slide show presentation and speech by MIss Giselle. During this number Miss Jenna and Miss Giselle wore matching costumes and danced with the students. In spite of the tears the dancing was absolutely impeccable.
The passion for dance Giselle has held during her 37 years at her craft flows through to all the students. They are indeed a family who love what they do.
A door prize drawn for during the night was a blanket hand crafted by Adawncia Doherty. Diane Topola was the winner.
False Confidence was a number performed by the adult tap dance students accompanied by a senior student who danced another style (not shown here). Miss Giselle, who teaches the adult class, is at left wearing red shoes.
Public Notice is hereby given that the Council of the Village of Wood Mountain intends to adopt a
excluding statutory holidays. Copies are available at cost Public Hearing: Council will hold a Public Hearing on June 3, 2025 at 7:00 p.m in the Village Council Chambers, 309 1st Avenue, Wood Mountain, Saskatchewan to hear any person or group that wants to comment on the proposed bylaw Council will also consider written comments received at the hearing or delivered to the undersigned at the municipal office before the hearing. Issued at the Village of Wood Mountain this 16th day of May, 2025.
If yougot engaged or married in 2024-25, sendusyourphoto and we will feature your special day. Deadline for submission is
Photo courtesy of Muriel Fehr
Vickie Greffard Administrator
Editorial & Opinions
Norm Park/SaskToday.ca
It was, probably still could be, or might be in operation right now in one form or another, a three-nation agreement that simply made sense.
At least that’s what I could see of it, although admittedly I was definitely an outsider, but given an opportunity to view a little of the insider details in the role of a reporter a few years ago.
The North American Central Trade Corridor idea conjured up about 20 years ago, involving Mexico, the United States and Canada fit nicely into the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). It focused activity on moving goods, mainly from central and northern Mexico and the southern U.S. through a defined trade or transportation corridor using the most efficient means possible. It started in north central Mexico, moved through central U.S. states like Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Nevada and the Dakotas and made its way to Minot, Estevan, Regina, Saskatoon and eventually Edmonton if desired or required.
The plans unfolded under leadership from all three nations and I was fortunate enough to be invited to sit in on a couple of the gatherings, one of them being in Minot.
If memory serves me, I don’t recall any major discussions regarding tariffs since those matters had been sorted out previously through NAFTA and
all parties appeared to be in general agreement with the terms that served all jurisdictions.
There was no one like Donnie Deflector imposing tariff restrictions on anyone, in a yes, no, maybe so fashion every three or four hours. Discussions and deal-making went relatively smoothly and focused on how to carry on business in both directions most effectively.
Highways were discussed and how the corridor featured relatively freewheeling access for the semis, with no major mountains or rivers or other landscape challenges. Four lanes were preferred, especially by those with wide loads, but they could manage with two lanes since there were good sight lines and reliable weather forecasts.
Talks focused on routes, availability of food, fuel, washrooms and money exchange sites at various centres. They talked about truck by-pass routes, even though the cities they had to navigate around were smaller in scope than in other routes, which was, again, a big advantage in getting products to market quickly and efficiently.
More talks focused on customs and immigration offices and what could be done at various points of entry whether it was trucks, trains or planes using the corridor.
They even talked about autonomous trucks, i.e. one driver, responsible for
FROM THE SIDELINES: TRADE CORRIDOR IDEAS WORK
four to seven units, if the self-driving units ever became a reality.
Strategic global transportation hubs became self-evident and moves were made to construct them in Minot and Regina while other centres made accommodation gestures.
Getting fresh food from Mexico to Saskatoon or Edmonton was quite doable in a matter of a day or two with the right procedures, plans and weather. Rail and air transport issues were not in conflict with the highway model, they just called for a few more people (customs) and plans since the rail system would deviate somewhat from the roads, but not that much.
It was, and maybe still is, a plan with a solid template and potential and would be or could be used currently to deliver goods, south to north and viceversa.
A current American rail line making its way to a port in Northgate, Sask., and then back again to Minneapolis and Chicago, carrying goods both ways, is one example of this progress.
A recent purchase of an American rail line by a Canadian rail company, that automatically links Mexico to central Canada is another good example of level-headed business people and group thinkers, professors and transportation people getting their heads together to make things easier for all and to add to profit margins.
Now, of course, we have the
Deflector involved in the trade world and that is putting a whole new globlike mess on this tri-country plan. He likes things messy. The more chaos the better it is in his world. Tariffs do the trick until the next shiny new project comes to mind, like suing universities for teaching, law firms for protecting the law and media for delivering news and opinions. Cryptocurrency and memes might work, let’s make them official. And that’s just a tiny sample of this self-inflicted chaos.
There may be an endless stream of confusion for a while, at least until our friends to the south can get the act together and straighten out the system that others put together so effectively a few years ago.
The trade corridor advantages are still there, as long as they are allowed to work.
I know I enjoyed my brief encounters with those people whose minds were focused on plans to move forward in the world of business, transportation and unity.
I’m hoping that spirit returns sooner rather than later.
Leave the fighting for the boxing and wrestling rings or the NHL ice surfaces. That is where it belongs, as entertainment, not as a way of doing international business. Negotiation, listening and understanding issues might be the preferred options perhaps?
Submitted by Pastor Sarah Mowat Messiah Lutheran Church
I love spring and early summer! Calves, and foals, and crocus, and tulips and the greening up of the land! Watching the farmers get out seeding and getting the garden ready for planting.
Seeing all the birds that have come back or who are making their flights north. All of this makes me understand and appreciate the words from the book of psalms. There are so many psalms that speak about the creative power of God. How God fashioned all things and how all things show their worship to God…even the plants. Psalm 96 from the Message Bible says it like this: “Get out the message—God Rules! He put the world on a firm foundation;
He treats everyone fair and square. Let’s hear it from Sky, With Earth joining in, And a huge round of applause from Sea. Let Wilderness turn cartwheels, Animals, come dance, Put every tree of the forest in the choir—
An extravaganza before God as he comes…”
This Sunday and next Sunday many churches celebrate ‘Rogation Sunday.” This is a Sunday that is set aside to bless seeds, gardens, farmers, fields, and farming equipment, and famers themselves. We will join in with King David, renew our commitment to the land, and praise God for all the blessings the land brings us. Thanks Be to God!
National Police Week
May 11-17
Honouring those who protect and serve during National Police Week
Sherri Solomko Freelance Reporter
National Police Week began in 1970 as a way for the police to connect with their communities and to increase awareness about the services they provide. This year’s theme is ‘Committed to Serve Together’.
A release on the National Police Website states, “The community wants and expects the police to keep them safe. Police services across the country are joined in achieving this goal – we are committed to serve in communities across the country.
Collectively, within our agencies, and with other police services, first responders, social and community organizations, we achieve this 24/7/365. Our teams are committed to working together towards a stronger, safer, brighter future for all.”
Assiniboia RCMP Detachment includes two constables, a corporal and a sergeant. There are also two full time support staff at this location. Sargeant Jason Dyment has been at Assiniboia’s Detachment since July of 2024.
Ashley Burnay, DSA at the Assiniboia RCMP Detachment, says, ““Due to staffing shortages and evolving provincial priorities, Assiniboia, Gravelbourg and Coronach detachments have a great working relationship which promotes a culture of teamwork and collaboration. We also count on other nearby detachments to help out when needed.”
Due to other commitments, Assiniboia’s Detachment will not be hosting any national police week activities this year.
Mayor Sharon Schauenberg - “The Town of Assiniboia and our local detachment have a great working relationship on which both sides support each other. We have great communication with our detachment, which includes the regular attendance of our Sergeant at council meetings for community policing reports followed by a short question/answer session.”
“We are involved with the strategic plan for the detachment and assist them for suggestions to focus their community policing efforts for the upcoming year. Our members are active as they become a part of the community they serve to protect. We fully support the hard work they do, in any way possible, we know it’s not an easy job and we commend them for keeping Assiniboia a safe community to live and work in.”
Did you know that the Assiniboia Detachment location was built in 1958-59, and has not been moved since then? At one time, the building used to include living quarters but now it houses fitness space where those living quarters once were.
Assiniboia Detachment said they are going to be part of bike rodeos for students Grades 1-2 in the upcoming weeks.
Their recent newsletter
outlines frauds and scams
and while the local RCMP don’t’ want to jinx themselves, there has been a slight decline of these occurrences in the area when it comes to frauds and scams. Please refer to this newsletter for valuable information on being aware for your best defense.
Also included in this quarterly RCMP newsletter, available on the Town of Assiniboia website, there is great information on SCAN, a unit of officers who work under the Provincial Protective Services Branch to investigate reports filed by the public who have concerns
about potential criminal activity happening in their neighborhood, such as drugs, gang activity, prostitution, child exploitation and unlawful sale or use of alcohol.
In 2023, SCAN responded to 412 public complaints and investigated in 42 different communities in Saskatchewan. SCAN has 15 investigators throughout the province, stationed between Regina, Saskatoon and Prince Albert.
To find out more information about SCAN or to file a complaint about a house in your neighbourhood, check out their webpage on the Government
of Saskatchewan Website, under Keeping Your Neighbourhoods Safe, or calling the toll-free Regina number at 1-866-51-SAFER (7-2337). The information you provide is confidential.
The Assiniboia RCMP would like to remind residents that there have been changes in speed signs around town and the Town of Assiniboia have amended Traffic Bylaws in a number of places. These details can be found on TOA website or inquiry at Town Office.
Last but not least, the Assiniboia Detachment say, “We would like to advise the public of a
temporary change to the Detachment’s front counter hours – until further notice the office will be closed weekdays between 12:00 and 1:00 pm. If you require police assistance during that time, please call 310-RCMP (7257) or 9-1-1 in case of emergencies. If you call the office between that time, feel free to leave a message and our DSA will return your call as soon as possible. The front counter is otherwise available week days from 8:30 – 12:00 and 1:00 – 4:30 pm. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.afer Communities and Neighbourhoods (SCAN).
ACHS Drama Club helps to spread fine arts in Assiniboia
Submitted
The ACHS Drama Club has recently completed its second spring play in the last 10 years. The club is very proud to help spread the fine arts in Assiniboia.
This year’s play was The Bold, The Young, and The Murdered, a comedic murder mystery in which the long-running soap opera The Bold and The Young is in its final days. Its hunky hero has self-esteem issues, its villainous old man is more interested in soup, and its heroines are slightly unhinged. The executive producer gives the squabbling cast an ultimatum: complete one episode overnight or the show dies. But when the director ends up murdered and other cast members start dropping like flies, it seems like his threat might actually come true. This group of misfits must
find a way to complete the episode before everyone turns up dead.
The club is very thankful to the community for coming out and supporting the fine arts at ACHS. Drama is one of the best ways for students to build confidence and public speaking skills.
One of the directors, Ms. Gunchoski, said, “Please come out and support your drama program—support any arts that are being offered. Since COVID, there has been a decline in art programs. Lots of schools have had to shut their programs down and are just slowly rebuilding them. So if there’s ever anything happening art-wise in your community, please stop by and support it—even just letting actors and crew know that they are doing a great job. Try to be
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a part of the arts in your community, whether that be painting, singing, or anything like that. We are a very sports-dominated place, but art is something that is good for the mind and good for the soul.”
This year, the Drama Club had 17 members altogether—five crew members and 12 cast members—plus Ms. Raine Gray and Ms. Proche Gunchoski, who worked tirelessly to present the play to the best of their ability. This year, the club made some major upgrades that helped produce a stellar play. Some upgrades included rented microphones, sound equipment, and even a lovely set background built by ACHS’s very own Construction class, led by Mr. Huyghebaert. The Drama Club is extremely grateful for the construction class’s hard work. Due to the success of the Halloween play raffle basket, the club chose to continue the tradition with a Mother’s Day raffle basket. This year’s winner was Alison Lewis!
Even with all the amazing upgrades, there were some bittersweet moments. This year, the Drama Club is saying goodbye to three seniors: Keaton Fisher, Mahaik Virani, and Mina Wirges.
When talking to Keaton, she said, “I loved be-
ing able to be part of a community where I could be myself. I loved that I got to find a group that I consider a part of my family. All of our hard work and dedication is something that I admire and that I will be proud of for eternity.”
As the club bids farewell to some seniors, they are also saying goodbye to one of the teachers and directors who helped bring drama back to ACHS: Ms. Raine Gray. Ms. Gray is headed off to Regina but says, “Drama is important in high schools so that all types of kids have opportunities for extracurricular activities, and it also helps build confidence.” She also says she decided to help Ms. Gunchoski restart the drama program because “I was in drama in high school and wanted to give
kids here the opportunity to have something different for the artsy kids who don’t do sports.” Without the help of both teachers, the Drama Club wouldn’t have been able to improve so much over the years. Ms. Gray says she noticed that “confidence, stage presence, and energy on stage have improved well, and the group’s ability to work with each other on stage has gotten a lot better—especially at the end of this weekend. You can see you guys just playing off each other with ad-libbing, and I love that.”
When Ms. Gunchoski was asked if she had anything to say about Ms. Gray, she said, “Ms. Gray is a really lovely person. She and I started in Assiniboia at the same time. She has been somebody I’ve
really grown to appreciate and admire. I love the connection she has with students and how sweet and nice she is. I think it’s going to be quite difficult next year without her just because I will miss her a lot. I’ve never had somebody be so on the same page with something. I almost never really have to articulate what I want or what should be done because she is already one step ahead of me and has already said it. That’s going to be hard to find in others. I wish Ms. Gray all the best in her future—I really am going to miss her, and it will be hard to try and fill her spot.”
Thanks to the dedication of students, staff, and the community, the ACHS Drama Club continues to grow, and the spotlight keeps shining brighter!
Rocket Report: track results
By Niamh Hickey
The ACHS track team headed to their second mini meet of the season in Moose Jaw on May 7.
The senior highlights of the mini meet was when Grayson Ciocia placed third in the boys 800m race. In the junior category Ava Coghill placed third in the girls 200m dash. Then in the intermediate category,
Luke Kwasnicki placed second in boys hurdles and Emma Helland placed third in girls hurdles, third in girls javelin, and third in triple jump.
Assiniboia hosted an invitational track and field meet on May 10. Results of the invitaitonal meet will be published in next week’s edition of the Assiniboia Times.
At left, Emma Helland placed third in girls hurdles, third in girls javelin and third in triple jump while competing at a mini meet held in Moose Jaw on May 7.
The ACHS Drama Club completed its second spring play in the last 10 years.
National Nurses Week
May 12-18, 2025
We Salute all nurses in the towns of Assiniboia, Coronach, Lafleche, Gravelbourg, Mossbank, Rockglen and Bengough.
Assiniboia Union Hospital nurses receive timely boost
Just in time for national nursing week, a donation will provide a variety of classroom and scenariobased educational opportunities for local nurses.
The RBC Foundation today announced a $10,000 gift to the Assiniboia Union Hospital as part of a national campaign to support upskilling and resiliency training for nurses.
The campaign, rolling out during National Nursing Week (May 12-18), includes support for several hospitals in Saskatchewan.
According to Krista Borgerson, Health Services Manager at Assiniboia Union, the gift will allow the hospital to partner with a local training company to provide the hospital’s nursing team with continuing education sessions ranging from trauma to cardiac to pediatric to medical emergencies. The donation will also assist with having all nurses trained or recertified in Advanced Care Life Support and Pediatric Advanced Life Support.
“Rural nursing can be very challenging, often caring for friends, neighbors and family members, but as challenging as this maybe,
it is also the most rewarding,” said Borgerson. “We strive to maintain the highest level of care at Assiniboia Union Hospital, and continual education helps ensure that no matter the situation we are ready to serve our community.”
The donation is part of the RBC Foundation’s overall $7 million commitment this year for reskilling, upskilling and improving the resiliency of nurses and healthcare providers at over 50 Canadian hospitals.
The commitment includes a new $5 million donation to Windmill Microlending, which will help 850 internationally trained physicians afford the cost of recertification. These physicians will now be able to restart their careers in Canada, improving healthcare access for Canadians.
“At the heart of healthcare are dedicated nurses whose skills and compassion save lives every day,” shares Kim Ulmer, RBC Regional President. “Investing in their development and upskilling isn’t only a well-deserved commitment to nurses - it’s a commitment to a stronger,
healthier Canada.”
According to Statistics Canada, Canada’s healthcare workforce is struggling to keep up with demand, resulting in decreased access to primary care for
patients. A recent survey by Unity Health Toronto revealed that 6.5 million Canadians do not have a regular healthcare provider (physician or nurse practitioner).
In 2024, CIHI re -
ported five million Canadians struggled to access primary care. Held in honour of nursing pioneer Florence Nightingale, National Nursing Week is designed to increase the awareness of the many contributions nursing makes to the wellbeing of Canadians. Nurses are Canada’s largest group of healthcare professionals, with 400,000 members.
Assiniboia Union Hospital Nurses, including (left to right) Corallee, Teah and Tristen, will receive continuing education opportunities thanks to a donation from the RBC Foundation. Courtesy Assiniboia Union Hospital
Column: Hug a Nurse
Sherri Solomko Freelance Reporter
Don’t get me wrong. I am in awe and am amazed at many professions and have used this column to write about them in the past. This time I am choosing a profession I have had all too much experience with.
They come to work at either 7 in the morning or 7 at night. They better have eaten a good breakfast because who knows when they are going to eat again. There’s a chance their shift might be a slow one but from what I’ve seen, that is a rare occurrence. Their shift could start out mild and flip to chaos in a matter of minutes.
They must always be alert, upbeat and positive even if they know the patient has an enormous amount of obstacles to overcome. They lift continuously, they are beckoned continuously, they are forced to work in conditions they don’t necessarily always agree with or like but they choose to give their best each time they enter the hospital halls.
Patients and families rely on them as they are truly the lifeline between the patient, the patient’s recovery and communications with doctors, pharmacy, housekeeping, family and any other inquiring minds. They don’t pick their patients. They don’t get to choose their co-workers but not once can you see anxiety or frustration in any part of their day as they
tend to their duties. They don’t realize a simple reassuring smile from them comforts a patient nearly as much as the medication or the warm blanket they bring in.
In addition to a 12 hour shift that is full of things on a “to do” list, they are in charge of patient and visitor safety when an unexpected “CODE **” comes across the intercom. The patient or visitor may not know what the code means but in my past experience with a family member in palliative care, I experienced these nurses calmly reassure all patients and visitors without these people realizing that the code called out was for an incoming tornado and all the while these nurses had to have been terrified for their own safety and that of their family who were not with them. Not once did they show anything but concern and safety execution for those in their care.
I have witnessed nurses have to improvise with malfunctioning or missing equipment. I have seen them clean up nasty messes that are nowhere in their job description because they know the importance of reducing infections in their environments.
I have experienced them comforting family who are distraught at their circumstances and even though after a lengthy hospital stay of the patient in their care, they have to swallow that lump in their throats and
pour out their comfort onto the patient and family they have become all too familiar with.
I have seen them experience the wrath of frustrated and exhausted family members or patients and in none of these witnessed cases have I seen them lash back; and lord knows many of us would not have endured the wrath they were receiving just for doing their jobs.
What I also noticed on our many visits, is that they celebrate small victories right along with the patients and their families. You can see a teary eye when a patient experiences an extraordinary improvement since they saw them last. You can see a mile wide grin when they are in charge of releasing a patient who has experienced an extended stay. You can see a high five when they’ve finally brought down a patient’s fever that has lasted some time, or when they can tell a patient they are finally removing that cumbersome I.V.
“Nurses dispense doses of comfort, caring and compassion with no prescription necessary….Val Saintsbury”
Editor note: After writing this piece for another publication a few years back, a reader took this piece, enlarged it and framed it and presented it to a nursing team on their ward at Battlefords Union Hospital as a thank you for their services.”
National Nursing Week
The Power of Nurses to Transform Health
Margaret Aubert
Margaret (Hulm) Aubert passed away on January 23 2025 at the age of 95 A Life well lived Margaret was born on June 15, 1929 to Mary and Thomas Hulm on the family farm in South Allan, SK In 1951, while working at J J Weninger's in Allan, Margaret met Roland Aubert They were married in September of 1952 and lived in Regina until taking over the family farm south of Assiniboia in 1953 There they raised 5 children while also enjoying travel to Hawaii Mexico and many places in Canada & the U S In the summer of 2002 they retired to Allan SK Margaret moved to Saskatoon in 2010 after Roland’s passing She enjoyed condo living and being closer to some of her grandchildren Since August of 2023 she was living at the Saskatoon Shines Care Home East until her passing at Royal University Hospital in Saskatoon Margaret had many interests in addition to travelling She enjoyed taking pictures for her photo albums, and was well known for her apple pies and tarts She loved flowers and took great pride in her yards and garden Margaret was predeceased by her parents Mary and Thomas Hulm, her brother Frank and her husband Roland Margaret is survived by her 5 children Karen (Larry), Joan (Daryle), Bryan (Cindy), Alan (Carol) and Steven (Angeline), 8 grandchildren Chris, Scott (Wanda), Jenn (Chris) Jade (Riley) Amanda (Michael) Bryanna Brody and Preston and 4 great-grandchildren Addison Kian Rhen and Harper Margaret touched the lives of many people and will truly be missed A friend of hers was a friend for life The family expresses their deepest thanks for the many expressions of kindness and support In lieu of flowers a donation may be made to a charity close to your heart Prayers will be held on May 15, 2025 at 7pm at St Aloysius Parish Allan SK Funeral Service will be held on May 16, 2025 at 11 am St Aloysius Parish Allan SK Online guestbook comments can be made through Martens Warman Funeral Home at www martenswarman ca/obituaries/margaret-aubert
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Blaine (Shui) Schuweiler June 22, 1951 –April 25, 2025 It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Blaine (Shui) George Schuweiler who left us peacefully after a short but courageous battle with cancer on April 25 2025 Blaine was born on June 22, 1951, the second of five children to Vic and Muriel Schuweiler Blaine was predeceased by his mother Muriel, father Victor, motherin-law Kay Coates, and father-in-law Joe Coates He is survived by his wife Jo Ann (Coates), daughter Krista (Shane) Lidberg, and two
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grandchildren Adison and Ava He also leaves behind his brothers: Larry (Donna) Dale (Gorete) and Michael (Colleen); sister Judy; in-laws Richard (Nancy) Sandra Michael (Marie) and their families On July 31 1976 Blaine married the love of his life Jo Ann Together they built a beautiful family and shared countless memories Blaine was a devoted father to his daughter Krista with whom he shared a special bond He was a proud grandfather to Adison, born in 2001, and Ava, born in 2008 Blaine cherished every moment spent with his grandchildren, always beaming with pride Professionally, Blaine worked at the credit union in the 1980s before joining Assiniboia Agencies, where he remained until his retirement in 2008 He grew up helping his father farm and continued farming for a few years after his dad retired He was very active in school, excelling in sports during his younger years An avid golfer, Blaine celebrated his first hole-in-one in 2023, followed by a second just two weeks later He and Jo Ann enjoyed traveling the world, embarking on a river cruise, and touring Spain, Portugal Ireland and Scotland Their adventures also included family trips to the Bahamas and Disney creating lasting memories with Krista her husband Shane and their children Blaine and Jo Ann spent many happy times in Arizona where they welcomed family visits and created wonderful memories together Blaine always made sure everyone had a great time during their stays Blaine's love for his family was evident in everything he did Family was always the most important thing to him, and he maintained close relationships with his relatives, always ensuring they stayed connected His contagious smile and twinkle in his eye brought joy to everyone he met Blaine was known for his friendly and helpful nature, making a positive impact on those around him He knew so many people and would run into someone he knew wherever he went He was a humble man, facing life's challenges with remarkable strength and positivity His bravery and resilience were evident in how he lived his life, always maintaining his positive spirit Everyone is welcome to attend the Celebration of Blaine s Life on June 22, 2025 at 12:00 p m at the Assiniboia Golf Course Memorial Golf Tournament to follow at 1:00 p m Blaine will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him His legacy of love kindness and joy will live on in our hearts forever Donations in memory of Blaine may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society for Prostate Cancer Research or the Assiniboia Golf Course Fond memories and expressions of sympathy for the Schuweiler family may be shared at www rossfuneralservice com Arrangements entrusted to Ross Funeral Service, Assiniboia, SK
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survived by her children, Dennis Grainger and Gail (Rowena) Grainger; grandchildren Shelly (Rod) Cruse, Sean (Bina) Grainger, Marcy (Jose) Grainger, Jeff Grainger, Naomi (Jason) Taylor, Shawna (Shane) Greisinger, James (Christine) Grainger and John Grainger; 18 great grandchildren, and 8 great-great grandchildren; her sister Donna Cojacar; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and long time friends She was born Anne Ellenor Alfstad in Ogema, Saskatchewan, on October 5, 1920, but was known as Eleanor Ann Grainger most of her life Her family farmed in the Ogema area and she attended school in Ogema She along with her large family endured the extreme hardships of the Great Depression of the 1930s known as the ‘dirty thirties’ which hit Saskatchewan hard At an early age she fell in love with music and many hours were spent singing and taking turns playing the piano guitar and violin with her sisters Eventually Eleanor met a farm boy from the area, William (Bill) Grainger, and they were married in Pangman, SK, February 17, 1941 They began farm life together on the Grainger homestead near Dahinda, SK, where they had 3 children together Eleanor was a caring wife and mother, a meticulous homemaker, and a fabulous cook! The family first moved to Assiniboia, SK, for the winters in 1960 and became permanent residents of Assiniboia in 1964 Farming was done from a distance until 1972 when the family farm was sold Except for a couple years spent in Regina, SK, after her husband Bill passed away in 1974, Eleanor continued to reside on her own in Assiniboia until 2024 when she moved to Alberta to be close to her two sons During her long residency in Assiniboia she worked as a salesclerk for many years at a local lady s wear retail store until she retired and continued plying her musical skills part-time for entertainment at various functions around the country Music was a big part of family gatherings over the years and she loved to play a few tunes on the piano for anyone that came along right up to the last few weeks of her life Eleanor lived a long and healthy life She will be forever remembered and sadly missed by all family and friends Eleanor was devoted to the service of her loving God Jehovah who now has her in his memory Her strong faith assured her of the firm hope of a resurrection to a Paradise earth where pain, suffering and death will be no more (Revelation 21:3,4) The family would like to thank the management and staff at Prairie Villa Senior ’s Lodge in Assiniboia, SK, the Clover Bar Senior s Lodge in Sherwood Park, AB, and Everitt Gardens Continuing Care Home in St Albert, AB, for all the help and care given the last three years A Memorial Service will be held at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah s Witnesses 718 Leeville Drive Assiniboia SK on Saturday May 24th 2025 at 1:00 p m and by Zoom video conferencing Meeting ID 4970445081 and Password 30031 Fred Reynoldson officiating Interment to follow at Mount Hope Cemetery in Assiniboia Personal messages of condolence may be sent to the family online at: https:/tinyurl com/eleanorgrainger
Obituaries
Obituaries
Obituaries
Three strategies to ensure a more restful night’s sleep
There is no magic formula to ensure long-term health. However, if there were such an equation, sleep would be a critical component. Though adults may be able to function with less sleep than doctors recommend, a consistent lack of sufficient sleep can interfere with work, social functioning and driving ability.
Adults of all ages generally need the same amount of sleep, typically between seven and nine hours of rest per night. That’s an important distinction, as busy adults in mid-life might feel as though they can operate on less sleep without adversely affecting their overall health. However, in addition to the problems, an ongoing lack of sleep, or even consistently poor sleep quality, can
Keep fit and have fun with walking soccer
Some physical activities can become challenging as you get older, particularly traditional team sports that require intense exertion. Walking soccer is an activity that is quickly gaining popularity. What is it? Walking soccer, also known as walking football, is a non-competitive variation of traditional soccer that does not allow running or jogging. Physical contact is prohibited to help minimize the risk of injury. Plus, the pitch and goals are smaller. Walking soccer introduces a strategic element where players must anticipate their opponents’ movements. Participants are engaged—both physically and mentally— throughout the match. What are the benefits? walking soccer elevates your heart rate to help boost your cardiovascular endurance. The footwork provides a gentle workout, making it an ideal activity.
increase risk for cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, depression, and obesity.
Adults who feel their sleep quality is poor or those who aspire to sleep more each night can consider these three strategies to ensure a more restful night’s sleep.
Keep devices out of the bedroom: Screens are everywhere in modern life, and that includes the bedroom. Device usage so close to bedtime can adversely affect sleep quality because the blue light emitted from screens has shorter wavelengths than other colors in the visible light spectrum, which results in more alertness than warmer tones. The blue light actually confuses the brain into thinking it’s earlier in
the day, thus making it harder to fall asleep. Skip late afternoon naps: as they can make it harder to sleep soundly at night. Naps that exceed a half hour can contribute to feelings of grogginess and even compromise your ability to get restful sleep overnight. Avoid alcohol: as it acts as a depressant for the central nervous system that can cause brain activity to slow down. After drinking, individuals are likely to wake up and may even find it hard to fall back asleep. Waking up in the middle of the night cuts down on the time individuals spend in the most restorative stage of sleep, which is why individuals often feel as if they got little rest after a night of drinking.
Updates on Town highways project
Muriel Fehr Freelance Reporter
Work has been started in earnest on the town project. Entering Assiniboia from highway two north the flashing sign warns that there is construction in town and to be cautious.
The street lights have been removed with SaskPower doing the work to that end. There are still locations on Centre Street getting the attention they need. By the time the curb installation reaches that area all of the sewer relining will be complete and the crews will be cleared out to make room for the next phase.
Northstar Concrete is the company that is working on the curb, gutter and sidewalk portion of the project. The existing curbs and sidewalks of First Avenue East have been removed and the groundwork has begun for new concrete. The bobcat hauls gravel and dumps it in the
trench. Two workmen are down in the trench leveling the gravel with rakes. A water truck follows along behind. The truck operator gets out and sprays down the gravel with water following behind the men with rakes. He sprays water as far as his hose can reach and drives forward again. I was only there for a short while watching this fascinating process. I did notice several piles of gravel on the side of the work area. I shall do a little digging of my own and investigate some further information.
I did observe sections of newly formed curb a little further back. I am respectful of the work and stay well away from the actual work area when visiting to see the process and take pictures. Most of the businesses along the work area are accessible through the back alleys so they are making the best of a messy situation to
minimize the disruption of business.
Others have a little more of a challenge with access only from side street parking and a short walk to access them. We have some great Assiniboia businesses along this strip of construction. I have been told that the curiosity from the rest of the community has increased the regular traffic through this work zone. Curiosity and the very fact that the work is actually being done; we can now see it! Residents need to satisfy their curiosity in the process while maintaining a safe speed and a respectful distance from the workmen and equipment.
Also, don’t forgetyou’re in the area, stop in and support a business! More info coming your way as I can access it. Can you imagine how awesome the new sections of highway will be to drive one when the process is finished?
Community Choir hosted annual spring concert at Lutheran Church
Muriel Fehr Freelance Reporter
The Assiniboia Community Choir holds a spring concert to wrap up their practice season until fall every year. This year was no exception as the concert was held May fourth at Messiah Lutheran Church.
our choir this year, especially three younger faces, which really bring down the average age of our singers!” and “We are really enjoying these gals in our group as they bring such youthful energy and we are so proud to nurture and support young voices in our community.”
Priorviewing will by May16, 17,2 3& 24 from 9:00 am.to4:00pm. Call Marc at (306) 476-7888 or (306)4 76-2733tobookanappt. Therewillbenoattendancesaleday or pick-up. This auctionwillbe“Online Bidding Only ”. Bidding will open on May19and begin to close on May26at10:00am. No itemswillbereleaseduntil paid in full.You will need to have apaidinvoice to pickup your purchases.Items to be removedby June9,2025. Go to swit zerauction.catoget registered.Thisauction will be asoft close on Mon.,May 26.There will be a3.5%BuyersPremium to amaximum of $3000 peritemplustaxes addedtoyourinvoice
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The concert was held in the early afternoon with a free will offering and programs available. Including the choir and special guest performers there were over 100 attendees to enjoy the many musical selections. As one of the choir members previously worked and resided in Mossbank, residents from there attended the concert. With music in the air spring has definitely finally sprung.
Some comments from choir director, Carol include “You may have noticed a few new people in
In Carol’s heartfelt welcome she mentioned a celebration of music that brings people together, lifts spirits, and tells stories that span generations. She also mentioned the program is a joyful blend of old and new, sacred and whimsical.
The first set included the spiritual songs Good News About the Chariot, Walk Dem Bones and Thy Will Be Done. Set two included Old King Cole, Old Irish Aire and Look to the Rainbow. Next were the guest performers, Kady Kunz, Teri and Amelia Hanstock as well as Heather Delorme. Following this was the audience participation song Circle, led by the choir and director. The last set included Disney Movie Magic which is a choral medley, Forever Young and Why We Sing. Refreshments were partaken by everyone in the hall after the enjoyable performance. The choir offered many ‘thank you’ including Assiniboia Elementary School for the use of their facilities for the Tuesday rehearsals this year. Thank You to Vic for sharing this gift of music with us. Also Thank You to Darlene Kowalchuk for being our wonderful emcee. Thank You to our very talented guest Kady Kunz. Thank You to Messiah Lutheran Church for hosting our concert. The final ‘thank you’ went to the audience for supporting the Assiniboia Community Choir.
Application formsare availableatSouthland Co -op locationsinAssiniboia, Coronach,Lafleche an d Mossbank,and online at southlandco-op.crs
Onegroup from each gasbar locationwillbeselected to receivethe proceeds from that location.
Carol Marit, choir director, turned around to direct the audience during the chorus of circle.
